Movember: Why it’s good to talk about men’s health

The summer of 2020 saw many of us sporting questionable hair dos, thanks to the Lockdown restrictions. And whilst many headed straight to the barbers and hairdressers as soon as they re-opened, there’s one very good reason we should all consider embracing the overgrown facial hair once again – and that is Movember.

Every year, this global campaign aims to put men’s health in the spotlight – in particular mental health and suicide prevention, prostate cancer and testicular cancer. Since it first began back in 2003, Movember has funded more than 1,250 men’s health projects around the world, opened up an important conversation about men’s health, and motivated countless men to take better care of themselves, and each other.

This year, there are several ways you can get involved and show your support:

• Grow a mo: Grow a moustache and get your ‘Mo Bro’s’ to sponsor you for your efforts.
• Move for Movember: Run or walk 60km over the month of November in honour of the 60 men we lose to suicide every hour across the world.
• Host a Mo-ment: Rally your friends and do something fun to raise money – a virtual quiz for example.
• Mo your own way: Choose your own adventure, big or small, and challenge yourself.

The team at YourGP has been supporting Movember for several years, with staff members growing elaborate beards and even shaving their heads in solidarity. And although the resulting looks may be hilarious, we know just how serious the issue of men’s health is.

A survey by the National Pharmacy Association (NPA), for example, showed that nearly nine in ten men do not like to trouble a doctor or pharmacist unless they have a serious problem. And as a result, men are less likely to access disease screening or seek professional support.

In response, we at YourGP want to make it clear that we are here for you. No matter how minor you think the health problem is; if it is causing you worry, it is best to talk to an expert about it right away. And this applies right across the board – whether it is a physical problem or a mental health issue.

For more information on how to take part, donate, and find out where the proceeds of Movember go, head to www.movember.com. And feel free to share photos of your efforts with us over on Facebook and Twitter!