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By Shane Clausing

movember

Men’s mental health a main focus this Movember

Nov 2, 2021 | 11:18 AM

November 1 marks the official start for what is known as “Movember”.

The annual month-long fundraiser is celebrated in various countries. The goal of the fundraiser encourages men to grow a mustache during the month of November, with the hope men will raise awareness and funds for men’s health issues.

Some men’s health issues focused on during the campaign include prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and men’s mental health awareness.

Since the inception of Movember, the organization has raised $837 million for supports and awareness.

Tammy Monro, the Resource Coordinator at the Resource Centre for Suicide Prevention in Grande Prairie says events like Movember are important when it comes to bringing awareness to all of these men’s health issues.

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“I think it’s incredibly important. Unfortunately, men kind of fall through the cracks when it comes to mental health. There is a lot of stigma and taboo, and not enough people talking about it,” she explained.

“I think Movember is just a great way to highlight that. Men are human, have emotions, it should be celebrated and (they should know) there is support out there too.”

Monro tells EverythingGP there are some key signs you should look out for if somebody you know could be suffering from mental health issues.

“There might be some noticeable behavior, usually it’s kind of a negative change. Maybe they’re drinking or smoking more than usual, maybe they’re talking about how much stress is going on in their life,” she said.

“(If) anything like that is out of the norm for that person (and) is causing a negative impact, that’s usually when we want to step up and have that conversation.”

While much of the stigma regarding men’s mental health remains, Monro mentioned she’s seen an uptick in more men stepping forward and getting help.

“We actually had to open up a second men’s support group, because there was enough need in the community for more support for men. There’s definitely more men reaching out for help and trying to get more support.”

For those wondering how to get help and where to start, Monro says there are various free options out there in the community.

“Google kind of is your friends. There are a number of mental health helplines and 24-hour helplines for somebody. Maybe if someone is in crisis there are a few walk-in places like ICAT from Alberta Health Services and then we also have our two men’s support groups.”

Monro mentioned the Resource Centre for Suicide Prevention doesn’t have any events planned for Movemeber yet, however, said they’re hoping to organize something within the coming weeks to show their support.

This year, there is an extra emphasis put on all categories and issues Movember hopes to tackle with men’s health, mainly because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Men are recommended to book a physical once a year just to make sure they’re healthy and aren’t developing any type of cancer.

Supports for Movember, as well as how you can participate and donate can be found at their website.