‘Movember’ is a public health campaign that raises awareness around two aspects of men’s health throughout November. These are:
1) Men’s mental health
2) Testicular and prostate cancer
You can support the ‘Movember’ movement by growing a moustache – or even, sticking one on! Get creative; there are loads of different styles to choose from – you have a handlebar, a rock-star, a cowboy or even a walrus – just take your pick!
Just remember, no matter whether you are male or female; you can raise awareness about these important topics and show your support for charity!
When it comes to their health, many men don’t talk; don’t take action and wait too long to seek help.
Movember is about helping men live happier, healthier, longer lives by focusing on two key areas of men’s mental and physical health:
Mental health and suicide prevention
A recent survey published by NHS Digital (2020) explored mental health in children and young people and found that one in six children age 5-16 were identified as having a probable mental health disorder.
We want you to stay mentally healthy by:
- Staying connected with your friends, family and/or carers.
- Challenging the notions that men talking or showing emotion is ‘weak’ and that being strong is the only way to be ‘manly’. Remember, it is ok not to be ok – it is important to talk to others if you are feeling down.
- Talking about the ‘big stuff’ in life, such as family issues, friendships, exam pressure, puberty and personal health.
It is important to be kind! Make sure you look out for yourself and others around you.
Since the coronavirus pandemic, there has been a 50% increase in mental health issues within children (NHS Digital, 2020). Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Please visit the emotional health page for information about where to get support.
You can also speak to the school nurses via Chat Health. Visit the Chat Health page for more information.
We are sorry we can’t see you in school this year but we hope you enjoy the month of ‘Movember’.
Written By
Danielle Coomber School Nurse
Danika Patel School Nurse Student
Hannah Kent Student Nurse
The steps to self-examination
- In the same way that girls and women can examine their breasts,
boys and men can check their testicles. - Get to know what’s normal for you in terms of size and shape so
you can notice any changes. - Once a month, in the shower, roll one testicle between the thumb and fingers
to check for lumps, swelling, or pain, then repeat with the other one - If you notice a change in size or shape, a lump that wasn’t there
before or if a testicle becomes painful, get it checked out!
Prostate Cancer
Only men have a prostate gland, so it is important for you to be aware of this type of cancer. However, it mostly occurs in men who are aged 40 and above and easily diagnosed by a blood test. This isn’t something that you should be worried about now, but as you grow older it is important not to be afraid of going to the doctors for routine check-ups.
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