Movember - Supporting Men's Mental & Physical Health
Leading charity Movember exists to help men live happier, healthier, longer lives - making a difference in mental health and suicide prevention, prostate cancer and testicular cancer.
This year, more than ever, it’s important to be there for each other. Below is ALEC. ALEC stands for the 4 simple steps to start ‘Movember Conversations’ between friends, colleagues and family. It gives you the confidence to have conversations with the men in your life who might be struggling.
1. Ask
Start by asking how he’s feeling. Use a prompt like, “You haven’t seemed yourself lately – are you feeling OK?” Trust your instinct. Remember, people often say “I’m fine” when they’re not, so don’t be afraid to ask twice.
You can use something specific you’ve noticed, like, “It’s just that you haven’t been replying to my texts, and that’s not like you.”
2. Listen
Give him your full attention. Let him know you’re hearing what he’s saying and you’re not judging. Ask a question like, “That can’t be easy – how long have you felt this way?”
3. Encourage action
Help him focus on simple things that might improve how he feels. Is he getting enough sleep? Is he exercising and eating well? Suggest that he share how he’s feeling with others he trusts. This will make things easier for both of you. And if he’s felt low for more than two weeks, suggest that he chat to his doctor.
4. Check in
To find out more information, get fundraising ideas and support, please visit uk.movember.com.
Follow up your conversation with a phone call, FaceTime or walk. This helps to show that you care; plus, you’ll get a feel for whether he’s feeling any better.
For immediate help & support:
SAMARITANS:
Confidential support for people experiencing feelings of distress or despair or suicidal thoughts.
Phone: 116 123 (free 24-hour helpline)
www.samaritans.org.uk
CALM:
CALM is the Campaign Against Living Miserably, for men aged 15 to 35.
Phone: 0800 58 58 58 (daily, 5pm to midnight)
www.thecalmzone.net
MIND:
Promotes the views and needs of people with mental health problems.
Phone: 0300 123 3393 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm)
www.mind.org.uk
Help us to raise money for Men's Mental & Physical Health today!
Please donate at:
