Under the surface of this heart-warming challenge lies the deeply worrying crisis we face. Roughly 4,500 men in England and Wales lose their lives each year to suicide. By the end of today, another 14 men will have taken their lives. This horrifying statistic reveals suicide as the biggest killer of men under 50, yet the least talked about, clouded in stigma and outdated ideas of what it means to be a 'man' today - ideas of 'strength' and 'toughness' ever-prevailing. Movember, however, seems to be a crucial reminder that 'strength' can no longer be found in this silence, but in speaking out.
A simple act of growing a moustache becomes a conversation without words...
Statistics reveal shocking imbalances in suicide rates and those who seek help. Whilst 78% of suicide deaths are male, only 38% of NHS “talking therapy” referrals are men. This imbalance isn't logical and calculated - its cultural. A generation of 'strong, silent types' are embedded deep into the norms of our society. This shame consequently hangs over men who access support, leading to the confusion of silence for resilience, and stoicism for strength.
Movember, however, seems to be a crucial reminder that 'strength' can no longer be found in this silence, but in speaking out.
This is where Movember steps in - as not only a light-hearted campaign or an excuse for experimental facial hair, but as a conversation for young men to be seen, heard, and finally get asked the question “are you okay?”. A simple act of growing a moustache becomes a conversation without words; a form of silent acknowledgement that mental health support should never not be sought. Raising funds for vital issues in mental health support and suicide prevention clearly remains a significant part of Movember, but perhaps its greatest achievement is its emotional toll. Each conversation stared and story shared reminds men that they aren't alone in this, and that speaking out against social stigma is in fact 'strong' and should be 'masculine'.