‘Don’t be an island’: Getting Berkhamsted talking about men’s health 

1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime and, on average, one man is lost to suicide every minute. Men’s health remains a pressing global issue but is still not talked about enough. Shame and stigma sadly prevent men from accessing essential treatment or reaching out for help with both their mental and physical health. That’s why Berkhamsted is proud to be supporting Movember this month.

Movember is a charity funding 1,250 men’s health projects around the world, dedicated to fighting for men’s mental health, suicide prevention and prostate and testicular cancer. Throughout November, moustaches are grown and fundraising events are held all across the world to raise money for causes that support men’s wellbeing.

Mr S Simons, Assistant Head of Berkhamsted Sixth, has been supporting Movember for 16 years. ‘Here at Berkhamsted we raise a lot of money for different charities,’ says Mr Simons. ‘For this cause, it is just as important to raise awareness as it is to raise money.’ Throughout the month, the Berko Mo Bros and Sistas team (comprising both staff and pupils) have been bringing attention to men’s health by growing moustaches, running over 100km and delivering assemblies.

Led by James S-J and James B, the Rugby 1^st XV team are hoping to raise £1000 for Movember, but they also want to bring attention to the wider issues behind the charity. As they say, Movember is a ‘bit of fun, but for an outrageously good cause!’ Speaking in assembly, the boys encouraged their peers to try and follow five easy steps to help improve men’s health – both mental and physical. Making time for one another, opening up about your feelings and doing enough exercise are hugely beneficial for your mental health. Likewise, conducting regular checks and being aware of the statistical risk factors of prostate and testicular cancer can help with early detection and potentially be life-saving.

‘It’s so important that we remind young men that it’s okay to not be okay,’ says Mr Simons. ‘Don’t be an island, talk your problems through.’ While Movember brings attention to this important issue, mental health and wellbeing remain a priority at Berkhamsted all year round, and there is always help available. Our School counsellor and psychologist offer professional support, and our tutor system ensures every pupil is given space to talk and be listened to. Wellbeing dogs and rebalancing weeks also take off some of the pressure of day-to-day life, helping to maintain a healthy learning environment.

With a few days left of November, you can donate to the Berko Mo Bros and Sistas page here and read more about the work Movember does here. A huge well done to everyone involved for their dedication to improving men’s mental and physical health!