Each November, you may notice men sporting a little extra facial hair—it’s not just for fun. Movember is a movement to raise awareness for men’s health, particularly mental wellness and cancer prevention. The idea behind the mustaches and scruff? To get people talking, focusing on issues men often face in silence.
CBD and self-care can play a role in supporting mental wellness, but Movember’s mission reminds us that prioritizing health is essential all year round. Let’s dive in:
What is Movember?
Movember shines a light on two major health issues that often go unspoken: men’s mental health and prostate cancer. For men, loneliness and isolation are common struggles, yet they’re often hidden under the surface. Societal expectations push men to “power through”, making it harder to connect openly. Unlike women, who may more naturally form support networks and discuss emotions, many men lack the same outlets, leading to loneliness that can significantly impact mental health. Studies show that men are less likely to seek help or talk about their feelings, which can worsen feelings of isolation.
The consequences are serious: men are almost four times more likely to die by suicide than women. This suffering in silence is something Movember aims to break. By growing out facial hair in November, men start conversations, raise awareness, and encourage each other to talk about mental health. The movement has become a global symbol of men’s health, with over 6 million participants in recent years. For many, not shaving in November is about showing solidarity and supporting friends or family members who’ve faced these challenges.
On top of mental health concerns, Movember also brings attention to prostate cancer, which affects an estimated 1 in 8 men during their lifetimes. Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men worldwide. However, due to less awareness, routine screenings, and open discussion, prostate cancer often goes unaddressed until it’s more advanced. Movember reminds men of the importance of regular screenings and early detection, which can make a life-saving difference.
By combining these issues—mental health and prostate cancer awareness—Movember empowers men to take charge of their health, connect with others, and break the silence that too often surrounds these critical concerns.
How to Support Men’s Health During Movember—and Beyond
Movember isn’t just about men growing their staches out; it’s also a powerful call to action for everyone to recognize men’s health issues and encourage open conversations. Men face unique pressures, often feeling the need to keep struggles to themselves due to societal expectations around masculinity. Whether you’re a man looking to improve your well-being or someone who wants to support the men in your life, here are some practical ways to contribute to men’s health and wellness:
- Encourage Open Conversations: Start by checking in with the men in your life. Simply letting them know you’re available to talk can make a world of difference. If you’re a man, reaching out to others, even about simple things, helps build trust and connection over time.
- Promote Self-Care as Normal, Not Optional: Self-care is often downplayed as unnecessary, but prioritizing it can significantly impact mental health. Gentle reminders about the value of hobbies, alone time, or even short breaks throughout the day can encourage men to prioritize their own well-being.
- Advocate for Regular Health Screenings: Movember reminds us of the importance of screenings, particularly for prostate cancer. If you have men in your life, remind them to stay on top of regular health checks, even if they feel fine. Routine screenings are key to early detection, especially for prostate health.
- Learn About and Recognize Signs of Mental Health Struggles: Understanding common signs of depression, anxiety, or high stress can help you recognize when someone may be struggling, allowing you to offer support more effectively.
For men, investing in well-being is about creating sustainable habits that reinforce physical and mental health. When self-care, health check-ups, and open conversations become the norm, it’s easier to find balance and avoid silent struggles.
Wellness Practices for Men: Building a Strong Foundation
Taking proactive steps toward wellness can also make a significant difference in both mental and physical health for men. Here are some practical self-care practices that men can incorporate into their daily lives:
- Stay Active: Regular physical activity is a powerful tool for reducing stress, improving mood, and boosting overall health. Whether it’s hitting the gym, going for a run, playing a sport, or simply taking a brisk walk with your dog, find an activity you enjoy and make it a part of your routine.
- Prioritize Sleep: Quality sleep is essential for mental clarity, emotional balance, and physical recovery. Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep per night. Establish a relaxing bedtime routine to help your body wind down—this could include turning off screens an hour before bed, reading, or practicing relaxation techniques.
- Connect with Others: Strong social connections are crucial for mental well-being. Make time to catch up with friends, join clubs or groups that interest you, or simply reach out to family members. Sharing experiences and feelings can alleviate loneliness and provide support.
- Engage in Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices like meditation, deep-breathing exercises, or yoga can help reduce stress and improve mental focus. Even dedicating a few minutes each day to mindfulness can have significant benefits.
- Pursue Hobbies and Interests: Engaging in activities you love provides a sense of accomplishment and joy. Whether it’s cooking, playing music, playing a video game, or working on a DIY project, make time for what brings you happiness.
- Seek Professional Help When Needed: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or anxious, don’t hesitate to reach out and get help from a professional. Reaching out is a sign of strength and an important step toward well-being.
CBD as a Supportive Tool for Balance
For men navigating the pressures of daily life, managing stress, and maintaining physical health, CBD is becoming a part of many routines. In fact, a growing number of men are exploring CBD for reasons like stress relief, supporting restful sleep, and enhancing physical recovery. CBD, or cannabidiol, is a natural compound found in hemp and cannabis plants, popular for its potential to support wellness without producing a “high.”
So, what exactly does CBD do? CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a role in regulating functions like mood, sleep, and stress response. When balanced, the ECS may help us adapt to life’s challenges more smoothly. CBD might support this balance, giving some users a sense of calm, improved focus, or a more restful night’s sleep. It’s important to note, though, that while CBD may help create a balanced mindset and aid with everyday stress, it is not a treatment for mental health conditions or physical ailments.
While CBD may be part of a broader self-care routine, it is not a substitute for real connections, medical check-ups, or professional mental health support. For example, prostate health is a significant issue for many men, and regular screenings are essential for early detection—CBD cannot prevent or cure prostate cancer. Similarly, although CBD may help some men manage occasional stress or social discomfort, it’s not a cure for depression, loneliness, or anxiety.
Many men are finding that CBD may be a supportive addition to their lives, offering a bit of relief during stressful moments, improving relaxation before sleep, or simply adding a layer of comfort during busy times. Ultimately, CBD is best viewed as one part of a well-rounded wellness routine, complementing practices like exercise, quality sleep, and self-care habits.
By combining healthy habits, supportive relationships, and self-care tools like CBD, men can create a more balanced approach to wellness, facing life’s challenges with resilience and strength.
Supporting Men’s Health with Care and Compassion
At The Hemptender, we believe that raising awareness is about genuinely supporting men’s health in ways that make a difference. This Movember, we want to encourage men to take charge of their well-being, seek help when they need it, and know that they’re never alone on this journey. Whether it’s prioritizing mental health, staying on top of physical wellness, or adding supportive tools like CBD, every step counts.
CBD may be a helpful part of a balanced wellness routine, offering a bit of calm, relaxation, or stress relief when life feels overwhelming. But it’s just one piece of the puzzle. True wellness includes connecting with loved ones, regular health check-ups, and taking time for self-care.
To everyone reading, we urge you to check in on the men in your lives. Encourage them to care for their physical and mental health, listen without judgment, and be there as a source of support. And to the men out there, remember: true strength lies in taking care of yourself, asking for help when you need it, and allowing others to be there for you.
No one has to face challenges alone. Let’s make this Movember a time of connection, encouragement, and compassion, setting the stage for a healthier, more balanced future.