This month’s topic is Men’s health, coinciding with International Men’s Day on Tuesday 19 November 2024.
THE FACTS
Movember
Movember is an annual event, held by the Movember foundation charity committed to men living happier, healthier, longer lives. The campaign encourages men to grow moustaches throughout the month to raise awareness of men’s health issues, such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and men’s suicide.
This Movember, why not join those making a difference in mental health and suicide prevention, prostate cancer and testicular cancer?
Sign up on the Movember website.
Prostate Cancer
1 in 8 men will get prostate cancer, making it the most common cancer in men in the UK. If you’re over 50, or you’re black, or you have a family history of prostate cancer, you’re at an even higher risk. Prostate cancer is not always life-threatening. But when it is, the earlier you catch it the more likely it is to be cured.
Currently, there is no screening test for prostate cancer. However, Prostate Cancer UK has created a useful tool to help men quickly check their risk – regardless of whether they have any symptoms or not – by asking about three key factors: age, ethnicity and family history. In addition, their Specialist Nurses are available to help people navigate their prostate cancer journey in a confidential way.
If you have symptoms that could be caused by prostate cancer, you should visit a GP. They will be able to do a free, simple blood test and if anything suspicious is found, patients will be referred for an MRI scan for further tests.
Mental Health
With social barriers such as societal stigma and fear of judgment, we know it can be difficult for men to talk about their feelings. However, you are not alone and there is a lot of support available:
Future Men: is a local charity that work with boys and men to provide support by delivering structured school programmes, youth hubs, individual one-to-one sessions and outreach work.
Andy’s Man Club: are a men’s suicide prevention charity that run free weekly peer-to-peer support groups for men aged over 18 across the UK and online.
Talk Club: is a UK mental health charity for men that offers talking therapy sessions, sports groups and peer to peer talking groups.
ManKind initiative: offers a confidential helpline and signposting service for male victims of domestic abuse and domestic violence across the UK as well as their friends, family, neighbours, work colleagues and employers.
UK Men’s Sheds Association: is a charity that focuses on building connections and friendships in community spaces, enabling men to enjoy practical hobbies together such as woodworking, metalworking, and more.
The Lighthouse Construction Charity
The Lighthouse Construction Charity provides free 24-hour, seven-days-a-week emotional, financial and wellbeing support for those in the industry. You can call The Lighthouse Construction Industry helpline for free 24 hours a day, seven days a week on 0345 605 1956 in the UK.
Uncomfortable talking? Unable to find space for a private phone conversation? Receive 24/7, free and confidential guidance and support over text.
Chat with a trained volunteer and share what you’re comfortable with, whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, suicidal or simply struggling with everyday life.Text HARDHAT to 85258 (UK) or download the “Construction Industry Helpline” App from Apple Store or Google Play.
