On November 19th, International Men’s Day celebrates worldwide the positive value men bring to the world, their families, and communities. The day aims to highlight positive role models and raise awareness of men’s wellbeing.
The 2023 theme is “Zero Male Suicide”. Together we can stop male suicide. The UK themes for the Day which are used every year and help maximise participation are:
- Making a positive difference to the wellbeing and lives of men and boys.
- Promoting a positive conversation about men, manhood and masculinity.
- Raising awareness and/or funds for charities supporting men and boys’ wellbeing
International Men’s Day encourages men to teach the boys in their lives the values, character, and responsibilities of being a man. Mahatma Gandhi said, “We must become the change we seek.” It is only when we all, both men and women, lead by example that we will create a fair and safe society that allows everyone the opportunity to prosper. The annual event also reflects on the challenges that men face; from poor mental health, to abusive relationships.
Key facts you should know:
- Men have a suicide rate 3 times higher than women
- 1 in 3 men have been the victims of domestic violence
- Men on average die 4-5 years before women
If you would like to access any support today or any day, you can find help at many charities, including the below:
Andy’s Man Club: a men’s suicide prevention charity, offering free-to-attend peer-to-peer support groups across the United Kingdom and online. We want to end the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and help men through the power of conversation.
Together All: the university’s free 24/7 mental health support.
The Zone: Free and confidential information and support for all young people aged 13-25. Get support with your health and wellbeing, relationships, sexual health, mental health and housing.
Harbour: a Plymouth based substance misuse charity providing support to people with complex lives.
First Light: a charity for anyone who is experiencing or has experienced domestic abuse or sexual violence.
MoMENtum: Supporting male survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Support for survivors, run by survivors.
Operation Emotion: a Plymouth based charity that provides services for adult male survivors of sexual abuse
At the SU, we celebrated International Men’s Day by hosting our launch for Mindful Men; if you’d like to find out more or come along next month you can contact VP Activities vpactivities@su.plymouth.ac.uk