The moustache bench: A problem shared is a problem halved
On Thursday 17th October, we invited people to sit with a friend, loved one or even a stranger to share a moment, have a chin wag or take a pause, on a moustache shaped bench.
The pop up appeared at the iconic London location of Borough Yards, one of London’s busiest spots where people have been meeting up for a bite and a chat for about a thousand years.
What's with the bench?
Daily life can feel isolating in a busy city, but benches offer respite from the bustle. They are also free meeting spots, which can bring people together to pause and chat.
Our catch... the Movember bench can't balance solo. However, the moustache shaped bench becomes easier with someone because ‘a problem shared is a problem halved.’
Encouraging more meaningful conversations
As a global men’s health charity, we’re aware that too many men fall, before having the chance to be heard with 3 out of 4 deaths by suicide in the United Kingdom by men.
Through bringing to the fore meaningful conversations about men's lived experiences, we can better our chance of improving men's health outcomes.
On average, men continue to die five years earlier than women from largely preventable diseases, with 2 out of 5 male deaths happening prematurely before the age of 75 (ONS 2021).
Globally, we lose one man to suicide every minute of every day - and more than 2 out of every 3 deaths by suicide are male. Which is why Movember invited members of the public to join someone on the bench because when we’re well supported, everyone benefits.
Not just for the men, but for everyone
Movember is for everyone, not just men. Our invitation to take part was open to everyone as we champion conversations sensitive to everyone’s needs because improving men’s health can have a profoundly positive impact on women, families and society as a whole.
Reaching out and not shying away from important conversations is key to helping men stay mentally healthy. It’s also crucial in building and maintaining strong social connections and empowering men to take action early when times are tough.
A little more help
However, it can be hard always to know where to start or what to say. That’s why we developed Movember Conversations with mental health experts. It's an online tool for those who want to feel more confident and informed when navigating important conversations with a man in their life who may be struggling. The tool is for all their parents, partners and friends regardless of gender.
What the pro says
Tom Ellis, Director of Young Men’s Health Literacy Initiative at Movember said;
“Checking in with your mates is one of the most important things you can do to help – as it’s not always obvious when someone is struggling. Our Movember ‘A Problem Halved’ bench physically represents how conversations lighten the load, and that life becomes easier with someone by your side.”
Join us
We are are making change, but we need your help. Let’s unite to take on mental health, suicide prevention, prostate and testicular cancer. Grow a moustache, take on the Move challenge by running or walking 60km, host a virtual event, or create your challenge with Mo Your Own Way this November.
Sign up or donate now and join the movement.