Men's Health Awareness Month 2025

November is Men’s Health Awareness Month - a time to focus on men’s physical and mental wellbeing. It’s also the time for Movember, a global campaign that encourages men to talk about their health and take care of themselves.

This year’s theme for 2025 is “Closing the Empathy Gap”, which means helping people understand each other better and talk more openly about men’s health.

Men face unique health challenges, from prostate and testicular cancer to mental health concerns and suicide prevention. In Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, men aged 55–64 are most at risk of suicide. Talking about these issues can save lives.

Small changes make a big difference - whether you’re supporting a colleague, a friend, a family member, or focusing on your own health.

Martin Rogers, Insight and Involvement Manager: “As a dad of three children under six years old, it is too easy to become over-stimulated by everything that goes along with that. Toys, television and the sound of role-playing scenarios quickly become overwhelming, and it can be difficult to find mental space to be able to give the children the engaged and present one to one time they deserve.

“I found the most important step was recognising this and creating new routines. Whether it’s walking the dog at night when there is no other noise or distractions, or making sure that both parents have solo time at weekends to do household jobs alone, it’s important to realise that silence can be an important part of staying healthy.”

Andrew Riley, Lead Pharmacist - Provider Collaboration and Performance: “It's always important to think of things we can do in terms of self-care, and sometimes it's the little things that can make a difference.

“It’s easy to get caught up in a bad routine that involves checking emails late at night, scrolling through messages in bed, or replaying unfinished tasks - open loops.

“I’ve started a simple breathing technique and midday walks to break cycles of overthinking. Creating space isn’t about doing nothing—it’s about conditioning the mind for resilience. Even my ‘permafrown’ has started to melt!”

Regular Health Checks

Regular checks can help spot problems early. Men should check for changes such as lumps, unusual skin marks, changes in urinating, or unexplained weight loss.

Finding problems early can save lives and make treatment easier. Let’s remind each other to take care of ourselves and talk about health more openly.

We encourage everyone to:

Do regular self-checks for testicular and prostate health.
Book routine health screenings and GP visits. Men aged 40–74 can get a free NHS Health Check for heart disease, diabetes, and more. Book now through your GP.
Notice changes in your body and talk to a doctor if something feels wrong.

Mental Health Matters

Men are 3 to 4 times more likely to die by suicide. In Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, men aged 55 to 64 are most at risk of suicide.

Many men feel they have to stay quiet about their feelings. But talking is a sign of strength, not weakness. Being strong doesn’t mean being silent - it means knowing when to ask for help. Opening up to a friend, family member, or professional can really help.

Mental health is just as important as physical health, and no one should face tough times alone. Let’s make it normal to talk - it’s okay not to be okay:

Talk openly: Share how you’re feeling with people you trust. Talking helps - reach out to someone today.
Listen kindly: Be someone others can open up to. Helping others can also boost your own mood.
Find support: Use wellbeing apps, community groups, your GP, or workplace wellbeing services.
It’s okay not to be okay. Talking and getting help shows strength.

Eat Well, Live Well

Eating well is important because it improves overall health, prevents disease, and boosts energy and mood:

Eat 5 portions of fruit and veg a day.
Choose whole grains and lean proteins.
Drink water, limit sugary drinks and alcohol.

Move More

Moving more reduces the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers, while also improving mental health by decreasing stress, anxiety, and depression.

Join a walking group, gym, or try the Couch to 5K app.
Pick up an old hobby - movement boosts mood!

Movember: Grow a Mo, Save a Bro

Movember is a global campaign in November that encourages men to grow moustaches (“Mo’s”) and raise awareness for men’s health.

It aims to break the stigma around men’s health, spark conversations, and promote early checks and support.

Movember started in Australia in 2003, when a group of friends grew moustaches to raise awareness of prostate cancer and depression. Since then, it has become a worldwide movement with millions of supporters.

Show your support and help raise awareness of men’s health - grow a moustache or raise funds to support men’s health this November. Find out more https://uk.movember.com/?home