MOVEMBER: A TIME TO TALK, CHECK IN, AND TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF

By Shetha Naji, Consultant Plastic Surgeon – November 9, 2025

Every November, men across the world grow moustaches for Movember — a global movement dedicated to raising awareness for men’s health issues, including prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention.

But beyond the facial hair and fundraising, Movember is a reminder for men everywhere to prioritise both their physical and emotional wellbeing — and to break the silence around health concerns that are too often left unspoken.

WHY MOVEMBER MATTERS

The state of men’s health is in crisis.

• Men die, on average, five to seven years earlier than women, worldwide.
• Prostate cancer rates are rising, and testicular cancer is the most common cancer in younger men.
• Up to three-quarters of suicides are by men, yet many struggle to seek help.

Movember encourages men to take action — from booking regular health checks to reaching out for support when life feels overwhelming.

Because there’s strength in opening up. Talking, checking in, and taking care of yourself are powerful acts of courage.
 

SMALL STEPS, BIG DIFFERENCE

If you’re not sure where to start, here are a few ways to look after your mental and physical health this Movember (and beyond):

1. Talk to someone you trust when things feel heavy - a friend, colleague, or professional.
2. Move your body - exercise can lift mood, reduce stress, and improve overall health.
3. Take breaks and make time for things you enjoy.
4. Learn how your body feels – you aren’t looking for medical signs. By regularly checking your external genitalia, you learn what is normal for you. Anything new or changed – please get it checked by a professional.
5. Attend your check-ups - especially prostate and testicular screenings.
6. Reach out for support if you’re struggling - you don’t have to go through it alone.
 

CONFIDENCE AND WELLBEING GO HAND IN HAND

Feeling good often starts with taking care of yourself - inside and out.

Many men visit my clinic not out of vanity, but because they want to look as healthy and confident as they feel.
 

Aesthetic treatments can play a role in restoring that confidence - helping men look refreshed, energised, and more like themselves again.
 

JOIN THE MOVEMENT

You don’t need to grow a moustache to take part in Movember. You can:

• Encourage a loved one to get checked
• Open up a conversation about mental health
• Donate or raise awareness for men’s health causes
• Take your own small step — whether that’s doing your first ever physical check, a medical check, a lifestyle change, or simply reaching out

Because men’s health isn’t just a men’s issue — it affects families, friends, and communities.
 

THIS MOVEMBER, PUT YOURSELF FIRST

Movember is a reminder that looking after yourself — physically, mentally, and emotionally -
isn’t selfish. It’s essential.

So whether it’s getting that check-up, starting a new fitness routine, or exploring treatments that help you feel your best, take this as your sign to prioritise you.

Because confidence starts with care - and prevention starts with awareness.