International Men’s Day is about celebrating the positive value that men of all ages bring to families, workplaces, and communities.
It’s also an opportunity to raise awareness about Male wellbeing, whether it’s social, emotional, or mental and physical health.
It’s not about ‘manning up’
We’re using today to remind everyone how important it is to look after your mental and physical health.
While we live in a more progressive time, many still feel that there is an expectation for boys and men to not share their emotions, live up to unrealistic views of what it is to ‘be a man’, and not seek help if they’re feeling unwell.
This can often mean that preventable illnesses can go unchecked for too long.
According to the Samaritans and data from the ONS, suicide rates among middle aged men (45-49) have increased in the last few years, and that the suicide rate for men in England and Wales in 2019 was the highest for over two decades (men 4,303, compared with 1,388 women).
If you are feeling suicidal, or you’re concerned about someone, please contact the teams and charities listed below
Read NHS advice if you’re having suicidal thoughts
Read our news article from this year’s World Suicide Prevention Day, 10 September
Thank you
In recognition of International Men’s Day, we’d like to take this opportunity to thank all our male staff, volunteers and support workers.
We’re proud to have passionate people working with us to provide excellent patient care, especially during these difficult times.
Get involved
ACRE Men's Group
ACRE Men’s Group is a relaxed space where men can come and discuss issues concerning them, their family or community.
You can build friendships and talk about topics affecting men including health and wellbeing.
Find out more about ACRE Men’s Group
Men’s Sheds
Men’s Sheds are centres across the UK where men can sign up and learn new skills and pick up old hobbies, such as woodworking, metalworking, repairing and restoring, electronics, model buildings or even car building.
Find out more about Men’s Sheds Association
Have some serious fun
Charities like UKMensDay.org.uk are using today to encourage everyone to have some serious fun, such as:
- By wearing a stick-on moustache for no good reason all day long
- By having an International Men’s Day party
- By doing something daft – with or without a moustache – to raise money for a local charity that supports men and boys
Visit the UKMensDay.org.uk website to see a list of charities
Movember
Movember is an annual event were men take the challenge of growing moustaches to raise awareness of men's health issues, such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and men's suicide.
Check out @MovemberUK on Twitter for inspiration