Movember: Growing Awareness, Moustaches, and Connection

A note before we begin: This blog discusses men's mental health and includes mentions of suicide. If this is sensitive for you, please reach out for support. Call or text 9-8-8 to reach Canada's Suicide Crisis Helpline.

You've probably noticed more moustaches popping up this month. Maybe your partner's growing one, or your colleague, or that guy at the coffee shop. It's Movember—and while the moustaches might look a bit quirky at first, they represent something much deeper.

The Story Behind the 'Stache

Back in 2003, two friends in Australia had a lighthearted conversation about bringing back the moustache. That chat turned into something bigger: a realization that while breast cancer awareness had pink ribbons and widespread support, men's health issues were flying under the radar.

They started with 30 guys. Today? Over 6 million people participate worldwide.

Here's why it matters: In Canada, approximately 4,000 people die by suicide every year. Nearly 75% of them are men. Men are dying before their time for preventable reasons—and that's exactly what Movember is trying to change.

Why Moustaches?

The founders noticed that moustaches used to be everywhere in film and media—a symbol of masculinity. But they'd faded away. So they brought them back, but with a new meaning.

Instead of reinforcing old stereotypes about what it means to "be a man," Movember uses the moustache as a conversation starter. It's a visible, slightly silly way to open up discussions about emotional health, vulnerability, and connection.

And honestly? It works. When someone asks about your moustache, you get to talk about why you're growing it—and suddenly, you're having a real conversation about men's mental health.

The Weight Men Carry

Here in our Alliston community and across Ontario, we see this every day in our practice. Men come to therapy carrying years of unspoken pain, often because they've been told from a young age to "tough it out" or "be strong."

Those messages are usually well-intended. But they teach boys that expressing emotion is weakness. That asking for help means you've failed somehow.

The truth? Real strength is knowing when you need support and having the courage to reach out.

The statistics on men's mental health are likely underreported—many men don't seek help, don't get diagnosed, and suffer in silence. But movements like Movember are creating the space men need to start talking, to start healing, and to start living longer, healthier lives.

How You Can Get Involved

Grow a moustache. Start November 1st clean-shaven and let it grow all month. When someone asks about it, tell them why. Those conversations matter more than you might think.

Move 60km. Throughout November, move a total of 60 kilometers for the 60 men who lose their lives to suicide every hour globally. Walk, run, swim, bike—whatever works for you. Do it solo or with friends.

You can sign up at movember.com or through the Movember app to track your progress, connect with others, and fundraise if you'd like.

Show up for the men in your life. This one's for everyone, moustache or not. Reach out. Ask how they're really doing. Create space for honest conversation without judgment. Sometimes just being there says more than any words could.

What We're Doing at Oak and Sands

We work with men dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, and major life transitions. We've seen firsthand how powerful it is when men give themselves permission to be vulnerable, to process their emotions, and to heal.

Whether through EMDR, CBT, or couples therapy, we create a safe, comfortable space where men can show up as their whole selves—not just the "strong" version society expects.

Seeking help isn't weakness. It's one of the most responsible, courageous things you can do—for yourself and for the people who love you.

Let's Change the Conversation

We're not going to solve everything overnight. But we can start today.

This Movember, whether you're growing a moustache, moving 60km, or simply checking in on a friend, you're part of something bigger. You're helping change what it means to be a man in 2024. You're helping save lives.

So ditch the razor. Start the conversation. And let's grow more than moustaches this November.

Need support? Oak and Sands Counselling Services offers therapy for men, individuals, and couples across Ontario. We have evening and weekend appointments available, and we're here when you're ready. Visit oakandsandscounselling.com or reach out today.