For the month of November, men spend 30 days growing a moustache to raise money and awareness for men’s health.
So, what happens when the month draws to a close and a group of tradies have some impressive mo’s to show off? They shave them off for a good cause, of course.
Sunshine Coast construction workers participating in Movember have undergone the ceremonial shave after raising more than $4000 for the cause.
A team of 16 men from Hall Contracting have spent the last month growing moustaches or running 60km to raise awareness about mental health, suicide prevention, prostate cancer and testicular cancer.
Hall Contracting CEO Cameron Hall said with suicide one of the leading causes of death for males in Australia, it was crucial that communities and employers encouraged men to speak up and seek help when needed.
“We know men are significantly less likely than women to seek treatment for mental health issues, so initiatives like Movember play an important role in removing the stigma surrounding mental illness and depression and empowering men to ask for help,” Mr Hall said.
“This is particularly important in the construction industry, which has a high proportion of male workers and records higher suicide rates than other industries.
“Each year, around 190 construction workers in Australia sadly take their lives, so our top priority is ensuring our staff members feel safe and supported and know there is always help available should they need it.
“We’re determined to create a workplace culture that encourages men to speak up.
“You wouldn’t think twice about seeking treatment for a physical injury like a broken arm, and that logic should apply when it comes to treating mental health concerns; there is certainly no shame in asking for support.”
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Mr Hall said with one in five men being diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime and testicular cancer the world’s most common cancer among men aged 15-39, Movember was also an important reminder for men to learn the signs, symptoms and risk factors for these conditions.
“Growing a moustache is a great conversation starter and has led to some positive discussions surrounding health and wellbeing in our workplace.
“If we can encourage men to recognise when something’s not right with their body, to schedule a check-up with their doctor, or to open up to someone they trust about their mental health, it will go a long way in helping them live happier, healthier, and longer lives.”
If this article has raised issues for you, or someone you know, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978.
Movember fast facts
- On average, one man dies by suicide every minute of every day globally.
- Each year, around 190 construction workers in Australia take their lives.
- Three out of four suicides in Australia are by men.
- One in five men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime.
- Men who have a family history of prostate cancer are 2.5 times more likely to get prostate cancer.
- Testicular cancer is the world’s most common cancer among men aged 15-39.
Read a related story: Family’s special reason behind keeping longstanding Movember legacy alive
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