Growing More Than Just a Mustache

As the chill of November sets in, you might start noticing a sudden abundance of mustaches sprouting up around you—on friends, coworkers, even your local barista. But these are more than just style statements; they’re part of the annual Movember movement, a month-long campaign where men grow mustaches to raise awareness for men's health issues, including prostate and testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention. Movember isn’t just about facial hair—it’s about sparking conversations, supporting critical health causes, and making a positive impact. We asked Christopher Emmanuel, one of our The Council for Boys and Young Men trainers to weigh in on his thoughts about his important message. 

Meet Chis online in one of our The Council for Boys and Young Men Facilitator Trainings.

What are your thoughts about Movember? How do you think Movember could make an impact on men's health awareness? 

With the holidays around the corner, Movember’s message feels even more significant. This season can be tough for a lot of men, especially dads who may be separated from their kids. For many fathers, being apart during this time can lead to feelings of loneliness, stress, and even depression. That’s why Movember isn’t just about raising awareness for physical health but also about highlighting the importance of mental health and creating a community that supports these fathers. Building a community around men who are going through this—especially dads dealing with family separation—is crucial. When men have a supportive network, they’re more likely to feel understood and less isolated, and they’re more likely to reach out for help when they need it. Movember encourages us to check in on one another and remind those who might be struggling that they’re not alone and that a strong support system can make all the difference, especially through the challenges the holiday season can bring. 

In your opinion, what are the biggest health challenges men face that Movember helps to address? 

In my opinion, some of the biggest health challenges men face—and ones that Movember addresses so well—are prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health issues. This cause is close to my heart because my grandfathers and great-uncles battled prostate cancer, so I know firsthand how crucial early detection and awareness are. Prostate cancer is a major concern as men get older, and it’s something that men often don’t talk about until it’s serious. Movember helps encourage men to get screened and raises funds for research, which can truly make a difference. Testicular cancer, which typically affects younger men, is another area that Movember sheds light on, helping break down barriers and promote regular self-checks. Mental health is just as critical. Many men feel pressure to “tough it out” when dealing with stress, anxiety, or depression, leading to feelings of isolation. Movember encourages men to seek support and recognize that they’re not alone. This movement provides a reminder that our health—both mental and physical—should never be pushed aside. 

Any tips, tricks, or tools you'd like to share to help men with their mental health? 

Absolutely. I think the biggest step for men is to prioritize making time for self-care and mental check-ins, just like we would for physical health. Here are a few tips that can help:  

1. Build a Routine: Establish a daily routine that includes activities that help you decompress, like exercise, reading, or a hobby. Even just 15-20 minutes a day can make a huge difference. 
2. Talk it Out: Reach out to a friend, family member, or support group, even if it’s just to share how things are going. Opening up can be tough, but it’s often a big relief to share what’s on your mind.
3. Use Technology: There are some great apps out there for mental health. Apps like Headspace or Calm provide guided meditation, while others like Moodfit and Sanvello offer tools for tracking your mental health over time.
4. Set Boundaries: With work and life pressures, it’s easy to over-commit. Practice saying “no” when you need to and set limits that protect your time and energy.
5. Stay Active: Physical activity has a huge impact on mental well-being. Even a quick walk or workout can improve mood and reduce stress.
6. Seek Professional Support: Therapy isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a tool that can help you build resilience and gain perspective. Even if things seem manageable, talking to a professional can provide support and insight. Building healthy habits and making mental health a priority not only helps us handle stress better, but it also strengthens our connections with others, making us more available and present for the people we care about. Always remember, by taking care of YOU, you put yourself in a position to take care of your child(ren).