MOVEMBER
You may have seen, since November began, a few mustache pins or blue ribbons with a mustache at the center pinned on some people’s clothing or bags. Those mustaches are the official symbol of Movember, an initiative to raise awareness on men’s health problems focusing primarily on men’s mental health and prostate cancer. Every year, during the month of November, men from all over the world grow their mustaches to show support and raise money for men’s health.
Why Men’s Mental Health?
Unlike popular belief, men struggle more with handling mental health disorders than women. Some shocking statistics show that “the global suicide rate is twice as high among men than women”(WHO,2019). However, more women are diagnosed with depression than men (mayo clinic staff, 2019).
In a patriarchal world where men are portrayed as the leaders and the founders of society, it seems almost ironic that the “privileged” gender is struggling with mental health.
From a Young Age
Throughout childhood, boys are taught certain stereotypes that deeply affect their everyday lives which end up having affects decades later. “Men should be tough”, “Men don’t cry”, “Boys get angry not sad” are all examples of toxic messages society has been sending to teaching boys for generations. Men are taught from a small age to not be in touch with their emotions and that vulnerability is a weakness.
To Heal is to Talk
Men’s mental health problems are rooted in the fact that they don’t ask for help. In women’s friend groups, talking about feelings and emotions is pretty common. However, in men’s friend groups, they tend to talk about more shallow topics and are uncomfortable talking about their feelings. Interestingly though, most wish they could.
Because of the strong support system women build amongst each other, women are more likely to overcome their mental health disorders. On the other hand, men end up neglecting their mental health, and instead, turn to harmful alternatives such as drinking and committing acts of violences.
Challenging Gender Norms
So, how can you help? Speak up! Dismantling harmful stereotypes and speaking up against them is a great way to abolish the stigma around men’s vulnerability and feelings. By doing so, men will feel less anxious about asking for help. Then, if you’re really passionate about the cause, you could become a member of the Mobros and spread awareness to your social circle. And who knows, maybe you could grow or wear a mustache!
Getting help
Getting help is the most difficult part of healing, but it’s the first step of regaining control over our lives. If you’re struggling with mental health issues, here is a list of ressources that can help you:
Suicide prevention and help line: 1-866-APPELLE or 1-866-277-3553
Men&: 1-833-327-MENS (6367)
References:
World Health Organization. Suicide Worldwide in 2019: Global Health Estimates. 16 June 2021, ISBN 978-92-4-002664-3. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240026643
Mayo Clinic Staff. “Depression in Women: Understanding the Gender Gap.” Mayo Clinic, 29 Jan. 2019, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/depression/art-20047725
