Movember: A practical guide to support men’s health
November marks “Movember,” a month dedicated to raising awareness of men’s health issues, from mental wellbeing to heart health and more. This month serves as a timely reminder for men to check in on their health – but it’s also an opportunity to commit to simple, manageable steps that support long-term wellbeing. Here’s our practical guide to staying healthy, with essential tips and resources to make looking after yourself easier, not overwhelming.
1. Mind Your Mental Health
Statistics make it clear: men are less likely to seek support for mental health issues, and approximately 75% of suicides in the UK are men, making it the leading cause of death for men under 50 (ONS). Mental health struggles aren’t always obvious, but recognising signs early like persistent sadness, irritability, or changes in sleep can make all the difference.
Building mental health check-ins into your routine doesn’t have to be a chore. Spend a few minutes each day or week reflecting on how you feel. Writing down thoughts, discussing them with a trusted friend, or approaching your workplace Mental Health First Aider can lighten the load, and making time for activities that help you relax, whether it’s a brisk walk, a hobby, or a quiet cup of tea, goes a long way.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, organisations like Mind offer free resources and information for managing mental health (mind.org.uk), and Samaritans provide 24/7 support at 116 123.
2. Stay Active for Physical Health
Men are more prone to heart disease and stroke than women, and according to the British Heart Foundation (BHF), they’re also more likely to have high blood pressure or elevated cholesterol – two major risk factors for heart disease (BHF). Regular physical activity is a powerful way to reduce these risks.
Instead of aiming for a rigorous gym routine, start by adding small amounts of movement to your day. Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity five days a week. If you work at a desk, set a reminder to stand up and stretch every hour. Simple adjustments like these can help keep your heart and body strong.
For practical tips on staying active, the NHS provides guidance on physical fitness (nhs.uk), and the BHF has dedicated resources on heart health, diet, and exercise (bhf.org.uk).
3. Take Cancer Screenings Seriously
In the UK, prostate cancer is the most common cancer affecting men, while testicular cancer tends to impact younger men. Regular screenings and early detection play a crucial role in treatment success. Men over 50, or those with a family history of prostate cancer, should consider regular screenings. Similarly, making self-checks a habit can help detect any unusual lumps early on.
Adding a regular health check-up to your schedule, including cancer screenings, could be one of the most proactive health choices you make. If you’re not sure where to start, speak to your GP for advice or guidance. Organisations like Prostate Cancer UK and Cancer Research UK offer information on symptoms, prevention, and treatments (prostatecanceruk.org, cancerresearchuk.org).
For those searching for cancer support, Cavendish Cancer Care is here to help. They offer free, professional counselling and complementary therapies for anyone affected by cancer, including family members and carers. Cavendish provides a safe place for people to express what they’re feeling, offering online, phone, and in-person support. You can self-refer through our website here, or reach out to their team directly at 0114 2784600.
4. Look After Your Diet and Gut Health
What we eat has a profound impact on our overall health. Diets high in processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats are linked to conditions like obesity and diabetes, which affect more men than women. Following NHS guidelines for a balanced diet – rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains helps stabilise energy levels and lowers the risk of long-term health issues.
Instead of a major diet overhaul, start with small, realistic changes. Try adding a piece of fruit or an extra vegetable to each meal, and drink water in place of sugary drinks or alcohol. These simple choices can set you up for better health down the line.
For more resources on meal planning and healthy eating, check NHS Live Well (nhs.uk/live-well).
5. Don’t Hesitate to Seek Support
Looking after your health isn’t about doing it alone. Reaching out for support, whether it’s for physical or mental health, can make a huge difference. Recognising when you need help and acting on it can prevent minor issues from becoming bigger problems.
In an emergency, dial 999, or if you need immediate medical advice, contact NHS 111. For mental health support, CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) is dedicated to helping men at risk, offering 24/7 support at 0800 58 58 58 (thecalmzone.net).
Taking Action Today for a Healthier Tomorrow
While Movember is a powerful reminder, every month is the right time to make your health a priority. Small changes, like adding a few more steps to your day or scheduling an annual check-up, can lead to big improvements over time. At Cavendish Wellbeing, we’re here to support men in taking charge of their health and wellbeing – because a healthier, happier you isn’t just good for you, it’s good for everyone around you.
This Movember, why not take things a step further with our Well-Man Health Talk?
In partnership with Spire Claremont Hospital, our ‘Let’s Hear from the Experts’ session covers essential men’s health topics like prostate cancer, testicular cancer, core urology, and mental health.
Why book this session?
Delivered by leading consultants, it’s perfect for educating and empowering your employees on men’s health issues. Plus, it’s a great way to show your commitment to your team’s wellbeing.
Book a call with Charley to discuss your options: https://calendly.com/charley_cavendishwellbeing/30min Or email Charley at c.whitehead@cavcare.org.uk
For more wellbeing tips and to learn about our services, visit our Wellbeing Blog or reach out to us directly. We’re here to help everyone stay healthy, informed, and supported, not just in November, but all year round.
This Movember, take a moment to prioritise your health. It’s about making small, consistent changes that add up over time. The steps you take today can lead to better wellbeing tomorrow.
Remember, everyone needs a little extra support now and then. Here’s to looking out for the guys who rarely ask for it themselves.
Until next time…
XOXO Wellbeing Girl
