Globally, one man dies from suicide every minute. That’s over half a million fathers, partners, brothers and friends each year.
Men’s health charity Movember launched recently, with their new initiative. Named LOCKDOWN – SHAVE DOWN – GET DOWN, it aims to encourage healthy conversations surrounding mental health. A moustache-themed bat signal, if you will.
Let's be honest - 2020 has been a challenging year. For everyone. From missing family members and friends; to that sense of "normality" that has been lacking; we need to support each-other as much as we can. The topic of mental health is now more important than ever.
Announcing their diverse ambassadors recently, Movember 2020 is gearing up to be the biggest and best yet. TV broadcaster Darren Kennedy, rugby player Harry McNulty, stylist Lawson Mpame, Men’s Circle Facilitator Darragh Stewart, and coach Pat Divily have all been lined up to support the cause.
The aim of having these five ambassadors involved is for us, as a nation, to make positive steps towards men speaking-up. Should they or someone close to them be struggling, they need to know that they can.
Speaking about the campaign, Darren Kennedy said: "I’ve long-time admired the incredible work of Movember so naturally I’m very excited to be an ambassador for this year’s campaign. The pandemic has really challenged my own mental and physical health. And I know I’m not alone in feeling it. Our communal mental, emotional and physical health has taken a battering this year as a result. For me, throwing myself into the Irish Sea has been a real tonic - both mentally and physically. Anything that encourages a conversation, encourages guys who might be struggling to reach out for help or just have a chat with a mate can be a lifesaver."
In addition, Lawson Mpame said: "I am very honoured to be a Movember ambassador this year, Movember and the incredible guys who are part of this community helped me at a time when I needed it most and when I was at my lowest point in life. So it's truly amazing that I can do my part to help other men out there this year and help stop men dying young especially at the difficult time we are currently living in."
So, the call is out there for those who have the ability to grow a 'tache to get involved. Be sure to do your "shave down" on October 31 to hit the ground running on November 1. You can sign up now via their website.