Every November, men around the world grow mustaches—not just for fun, but for a powerful cause. What began as a quirky challenge in Australia has grown into the global Movember mission, a campaign that raises awareness for men’s health issues. The iconic “mo” is a symbol of solidarity, drawing attention to diseases like prostate cancer and testicular cancer, while also shining a light on the silent crisis of men’s mental health.

Today, Movember is about far more than facial hair. It’s about purpose, mental health advocacy, and most importantly, suicide prevention. By connecting communities, breaking stereotypes, and funding life-saving research, the movement is changing the way society views men’s health.

What is the biggest mental health issue for men?

The statistics are sobering. Globally, men die by suicide at alarmingly higher rates than women. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, men die by suicide 3.8 times more than women. Suicide remains one of the leading causes of death among men under 50, and the risk is magnified by factors such as stress, anxiety, substance abuse, and untreated mental disorders.

Why are men at such risk? One reason lies in social stigma and harmful stereotypes that discourage men from talking about their emotions. Cultural expectations often equate masculinity with toughness, silence, or even denial of emotional pain. Men struggling with suicidal ideation may feel isolated, ashamed, or fearful of judgment.

On top of that, challenges like poverty, homelessness, trauma, and discrimination make things even harder. And when you factor in the fact that many men can’t get affordable care—because of gaps in insurance, health policy, or just limited health care services—it creates a cycle of struggle that often stays hidden until it reaches a breaking point.

The good news is that the cycle can be broken. It starts with education and advocacy, and with building stronger connections between fields like psychology, psychiatry, and public health, so men get the support they need before it becomes a crisis.

What is Movember, and why was it started?

Movember started back in 2003 with a pretty simple mission: raise money and awareness for prostate cancer and testicular cancer—two health issues that don’t always get talked about openly. Those early campaigns were a huge success, bringing in millions for cancer research with the help of groups like the Prostate Cancer Foundation.

But as the movement grew, something important happened. The team started really listening to the men they were reaching. Guys weren’t just opening up about cancer—they were also talking about mental health struggles, stress, and depression. Research showed that mental health was just as critical to men’s overall well-being and even impacted survival rates.

So, Movember widened its focus. Suicide prevention became a key part of the mission, right alongside the fight against cancer. By teaming up with health advocacy groups, weighing in on policy changes, and supporting groundbreaking research, Movember evolved into a full-on movement to tackle men’s health from every angle.

What is the main goal of the Movember movement?

At the heart of it, Movember is about ensuring men don’t feel alone. Research shows that when guys have hope, a sense of community, and something to feel motivated about, their risk of suicide drops dramatically.

That’s why Movember focuses so much on the little things—the everyday “moments” that count. It might be as simple as checking in on a buddy, grabbing coffee with someone who’s been distant, or showing up at a local fundraising event. These small gestures can be huge reminders that someone cares.

Of course, big moments matter too. Events like World Suicide Prevention Day highlight just how critical this collective effort is. And with partners like the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Movember can cast an even wider net—bringing together data, resources, and research to drive lasting change.

At the end of the day, Movember is all about building optimism, resilience, and stronger communities. It’s about giving men the confidence to open up, tell their stories, and find purpose—even when life feels at its hardest.

How to break the stigma around men’s mental health

One of the biggest barriers to men’s mental health is silence. Too many guys feel like they can’t speak up, and that silence can be dangerous. Breaking that stigma—what’s often called destigmatization—isn’t just important for men struggling right now, it’s something society as a whole needs to get behind.

For years, experts have pointed out how fear, shame, and outdated stereotypes stop men from getting help. That’s exactly what Movember is working to change. Their campaigns encourage men to open up about their struggles without worrying about being judged.

Through global storytelling, outreach, and messaging that’s rooted in understanding, Movember is shifting the way we think about masculinity and mental health. Today, when a man says he’s stressed, anxious, or even depressed, it doesn’t make him “weak”—it makes him human.

This shift in culture is powerful. It’s advocacy in action, and it clears the path for men to reach out—to a therapist, a mental health professional, or a crisis resource—without hesitation or shame.

How does Movember support men’s mental health?

Beyond awareness, Movember offers men the tools they need to live healthier, more resilient lives.

• Therapy and Crisis Support: Resources like the Crisis Lifeline provide immediate intervention, while long-term support from a mental health professional can address deeper issues such as dual diagnosis or personality disorders. 
• Lifestyle Habits: Research shows that regular exercise, meditation, and even small changes in daily behavior can reduce anxiety and promote contentment. 
• Mental Health First Aid: Communities are encouraged to learn the skills to recognize signs of distress, offering support before situations escalate. Parents, students, and caregivers are vital in building safer environments. 
• Personal Development: Emphasizing optimism, growth, and life goals, Movember supports initiatives that help men build resilience, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and embrace mindset shifts. 

These tools bridge the gap between mental illness and recovery, empowering men to not just survive, but thrive.

The best thing about Movember is how it takes something as simple as growing a mustache and turns it into a symbol of advocacy, community, and real change. But here’s the thing—it’s not just about the facial hair. Anyone can get involved, even if you can’t (or don’t want to) grow a “mo.”

You can jump in by:

• Hosting or joining fundraising events—from marathons to quirky, creative challenges. 
• Donating directly to support groundbreaking research in cancer, suicide prevention, and men’s health. 
• Sharing knowledge— post awareness information and important statistics, or simply start a conversation in your circle. 
• Pushing for policy change—help make sure mental health policy and public health priorities keep suicide prevention and access to care at the top of the list. 

At the end of the day, Movember isn’t just about mustaches—it’s about building a healthier society where men feel supported, valued, and free to live their lives authentically.

What support is available for men’s mental health?

Big movements like Movember can spark change, but real progress often starts on a personal level—with the courage to reach out and get help. At Pacific Health Group, we know how heavy silence can feel, and we believe in the healing power of connection.

Signs that you may need to seek therapy include:

• Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness 
• Increased stress, anxiety, or constant worry 
• Difficulty sleeping, changes in appetite, or loss of energy 
• Withdrawal from friends, family, or activities you once enjoyed 
• Struggles with substance use or unhealthy coping habits 
• Trouble concentrating, making decisions, or staying motivated 
• Frequent anger, irritability, or mood swings 
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicidal ideation

We provide a safe, compassionate space for healing through:

• Individual therapy for those struggling with mental health issues, trauma, or suicidal ideation. 
• Family therapy to strengthen support systems and break cycles of stigma and shame. 
• Couples counseling to help partners navigate stress, communication, and recovery together. 
• Telehealth services for accessible, flexible care, no matter where you are. 

If you or someone you love is struggling, know that help is available. Call us at 1-877-811-1217 or visit www.mypacifichealth.com for more information.