International Men's Day
Friday 19 November is International Men’s Day and we want to take this opportunity to focus on Men’s mental and physical health!
International Men’s Day is known as a day to make a positive difference to the wellbeing of men, improve gender relations, highlight male role models, promote positive expressions of masculinity and allow men to talk about the issues they are faced with. International Men’s Day also allows us to raise awareness and funds for charities supporting men and boys.
“The real man smiles in trouble, gathers strength from distress, and grows brave by reflection.”
- Thomas Paine
It is so important that we raise awareness about Men’s mental and physical health and stress the importance of seeking help. Fewer men are diagnosed with common mental health problems, not because they suffer less but because they are less likely to talk about their problems or ask for help. Almost 76% of all suicides are by men and we must do all we can to prevent Men’s health deteriorating to such a point. Keep reading for some ways you can get involved in International Men’s Day and help to spread awareness for Men’s health and wellbeing.
You are not alone
1 in 4 people in the UK experience a problem with their mental health at some point during their lifetime and around 1 in 8 men struggle with their mental health. So, just remember you are not alone. There are many people who understand what you are going through and there are lots of people around to support you.
Hear from some of our alumni as they talk about their personal struggles and what has helped them in their battle with mental health.
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| James Lindsay |
- Get involved in Movember!
Raise funds and awareness for Men’s health by getting involved in Movember! It’s never too late to raise money for a good cause. - Check out some wellbeing talks
There are lots of talks and events happening all over the world to encourage men to talk more about their health. Why not show your support by having a listen to some of these talks – Lloyds Bank have a Mental Health Talk on 19 November at 10:00 which you can join here. You could even organise your own event over zoom! - Use the powers of social media
Social media is a great way to spread awareness as you can reach people from all over the world! Spread awareness for Men’s health this International Men’s Day by sharing your experiences, thanking a man in your life or just sharing the link for people to get support. Don’t forget to tag us and use the hashtag #internationalmensday or #thankamantoday - Thank a man in your life
Use today to thank some men in your life or those who are positive role models in your community! You could even send a few cards out to family and friends to show your thanks and support. - Check in on loved ones
It’s really important, especially at a time like this that we check in on each other and show our support for one another. Today, check in on the men in your lives and make sure they are okay. You could even organise a lad's night over zoom for a chat! You don’t know what people are going through so showing you care is really important. - Donate to a men’s charity
There are loads of amazing charities that support men and boys, and help them to improve their health. Why not donate some money to one of these amazing causes or raise some money through an event! You can find a list of charities here. - Volunteer
As we are in lockdown and many of us have lots of time on our hands, why not show your support by volunteering for charity! They are always on the lookout for extra help! You can find out more about volunteering on each charity’s website. For example, you can find volunteering for ManKind here. - Speak out if you are struggling
The most important way to support Men’s health for international Men’s Day is to speak out if you are struggling. You’ll be surprised how many people feel the same way you do and starting the conversation is so important! Set a positive example, help yourself and help others at the same time!
Support
There is lots of support available to you if you are struggling with your mental health. Whether you are stressed, worried, anxious, struggle with an eating disorder or just need a chat, there are resources and support teams available both inside and outside the university.
Support at Herts:
There is support available for all sorts of issues, so please make sure you reach out if you are struggling. To find out what support is available, visit our Student Support pages on AskHerts or contact our teams directly at StudentWellbeing@herts.ac.uk.
Alternative support:
CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) provides online support as well as a telephone helpline available from 5pm to midnight every day.
Men’s Health Forum is concerned with physical and mental health of men. It also has a Beat Stress section specifically for men.
Mind is a charity which supports young adults across England and helps to support men and aims to reduce the suicide rate in young males.
Male Voiced supports men who have eating disorders and tries to break down the stigma around men and eating disorders.
Life Signs is a self-injury support organisation providing information geared towards men who self-harm.
Men's Sheds is a growing movement enabling men to find friendship and mutual support through common interests.
Mankind runs a confidential helpline available to all men across the UK suffering from domestic violence.
Respect - Men's Advice Line provides a confidential helpline for men experiencing domestic violence. They are available to talk Monday to Friday 9am to 8pm.
OnlyDads provide UK-wide support to all parents from those in full contact with their children, to those who have little or no contact. There is advice, from an expert panel, ranging from finances and debt, to dating and relationships.
Click here for more support links.
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