Men’s Mental Health is a stigma. Each year, 4300 men die by suicide in the UK. In England and Wales, suicide is the leading cause of death for males aged 20-34. That is why in November, people across the country fundraise for Movember. From growing taches to physical activity, Movember embodies a growing effort to change how we face Men’s mental health.
Here at the University of York, our sports clubs have always been eager to support Movember. From the Cricket club to the football club, everyone mucks in to raise money for an important cause. This year is no different.
One club, which sets itself a challenge every year, is Halifax Men’s Football Club. Their president, Oliver Bury, spoke to Nouse about the importance of this month. “Last year, we raised over £2700 which was a remarkable achievement. This year, we are ready to go even bigger. In the first week, we have already hit over £1000 in donations which just goes to show the importance of the cause. Our lads are running a remarkable amount this month and we all believe in the cause. Men need to speak about mental health and if we can make even a little bit of difference, we are delighted with that.”
The University of York prides itself on its Movember record. Last year, the University teams raised a huge £43,039 surpassing their target which was set at £35,000. This year, just one week in at the time of writing, the uni wide campaign has already raised £13,658.
Other events occurring this month include UYAFC (the men’s football club) walking the three peaks, the Sabbatical Officers are travelling 60km each this month and most importantly people are growing out their moustaches all month to raise money.
As the University community rallies round once again for Movember, the message is clear: together, we can break the stigma around men’s mental health once and for all.
