As part of Movember, the leading men’s health charity, we will be talking about men’s health throughout November.
The 19th of November 2023 is International Men's Day. This year's theme is Zero Male Suicide, which has a powerful message: together, we can stop men’s and boys' suicide.
It is well established that men have the highest rate of suicide and especially men aged between 45-59 years. Although much focus has been placed on breaking down mental health stigma and encouraging help seeking behaviours, men are still unlikely to disclose suicidal ideation. Existing societal structures make it difficult for men to talk about their feelings and emotions as they are expected to be stoical, self-reliant, and less open about their emotions.
At Brunel, to support this year's theme for international men’s day we encourage our men to post on the padlet here a photo, story or message about where you are with your mental health. Whether that is how you have overcome struggles, if you are struggling now or just a supportive message for someone else so they know they are not alone. Posts can be anonymous, and by men and women, but we also encourage our men to be open if they feel comfortable.
Together we can make a difference #teambrunel
Resources:
- Home - International Men's Day (internationalmensday.com) including a TEDx talk from a wife whose husband took his own life.
- Wellbeing Champions – please email staff.wellbeing@brunel.ac.uk and we can put you in touch with one of our Mental Health First Aiders or Wellbeing Champions who can have a confidential chat with you.
- Care First – Our employee Assistance Programme who provide confidential counselling 24/7, 365 days a year.
- Samaritans – Whatever you are going through, you can call any time for free on 116 123
- CALM – The Campaign against living miserably offer support via phone or through an online chat from 5pm to midnight 365 days a year