Marvellous Moustaches and Great Goatees – It’s Movember!

Movember and Men’s Mental Health: Why the Conversation Matters more than the Moustache.

Every November, you may notice more facial hair than usual—from terrific ‘taches to hindrance handlebars some impressive, some questionable, and some grown out of pure determination. This annual phenomenon is known as Movember, a global movement that encourages men to grow moustaches throughout the month to raise awareness and funds for men’s health issues. While the campaign highlights several causes, men’s mental health has become one of its most urgent and meaningful focuses.

 

Movember – 2025 statistics

Men’s mental health is a topic that has long been overshadowed by stigma and silence. Society often teaches men to “be strong”, and “keep it together”, sending the message that expressing vulnerability is a weakness. These expectations can create dangerous barriers, preventing men from seeking help when they’re struggling. Movember works to challenge these outdated beliefs, encouraging open conversations and promoting the idea that reaching out is not a sign of weakness—but a sign of strength.

Our project, Ask Dad, led by Mark Hunter supports this. It’s primarily a health education and training programme for dads and male carers in Edinburgh and the Lothians. We work with father’s groups and networks, providing customised workshops and educational sessions, addressing a range of health and wellbeing issues.

The project supports dads and male carers to improve their knowledge and understanding of the health issues affecting children and young people, and to improve communication between fathers and children around health, wellbeing and risk taking behaviour.

Better informed, more confident dads improve the wellbeing of the whole family. They also improve their children’s educational attainment. These impacts are even more profound in the communities affected by poverty and inequality

The statistics surrounding men’s mental health paint a clear picture of why Movember’s mission matters. Men are less likely than women to seek professional help for mental health challenges, yet they are more likely to die by suicide. This disconnect underscores a serious issue: although men experience anxiety, depression, stress, and emotional struggles just as deeply as anyone else, societal pressures often stops them from getting the support they need. Movember aims to break down these barriers by normalising discussions about mental wellbeing, encouraging men to look after themselves and each other.

Movember uses something as simple as facial hair to spark conversations. That curious new moustache at the office or gym often leads to questions—and those questions create opportunities. As a result, awkward topics can become more approachable. People can use this as an opportunity to share stories about loved ones, talk about their own struggles, or learn something new about how to support men in their lives. This ripple effect is at the heart of Movember and Ask Dad: small gestures leading to big change. Ask Dad aims to create bonds between peers, we encourage checking in regularly with friends, encouraging honest conversations without judgment, and fostering environments where men feel safe opening up. Providing information and connections to other charities and professional support services—all vital tools that can strengthen mental wellbeing.

As the moustaches grow each November, so too does awareness. And with awareness comes understanding, compassion, and change. Movember isn’t just a fun excuse to grow facial hair—it offers a focus, encouraging men to speak up, seek help, and know they’re not alone.

“By supporting the cause, and sharing elements within our Ask Dad network, we are taking an important step towards a future where men feel increasingly empowered to care for their mental health openly.”

Mark Hunter – Project Officer, Ask Dad