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Let’s talk about…Men’s Health

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Let’s talk about…Men’s Health
  • Pastoral
  • Student

Last year, I decided for the first time I would get involved in Movember.  There were too many alarming statistics out there, and in my mind not enough noise around the issue - I felt compelled to do something and so my challenge began.

Last year, I decided for the first time I would get involved in Movember.  There were too many alarming statistics out there, and in my mind not enough noise around the issue - I felt compelled to do something and so my challenge began.

My friend, Ben and I committed to running 60km each over the course of the month – this was to represent the 60 men who lose their battle with mental health every hour.

Now, being the rugby lad I’m portrayed as, it will come as a surprise to many that from time to time I struggle with mental health.  This is a condition that can affect us all and no one is immune.  It may seemingly come from out of nowhere, and you may worry that to outsiders the cause of your worries seem trivial, but to you it can feel very real.  Many men, and women, bottle up these emotions - they fear being called weak, or worthless.  This has to stop, too many men are dying too young, and we all have a role to play in eliminating any stigma associated with mental health. 

In 2021, 74% of suicides in the UK were men. This is an alarming figure and one that shows no signs of slowing down.  If I can ask one thing of my fellow pupils and friends it is check up on a mate.  Ask them how they are doing and then ask again.  Make sure that they are giving you a real answer.  It will only take up a few minutes of your day but will mean so much to them.  And, if we can start these ‘real’ conversations now we can hopefully turn the tide for the future.

Ben and I raised £1618 with our Movember challenge, exceeding both of our expectations.  We are so grateful to all those who supported us, both with monetary donations and with moral support over the course of the month.  Those that know me, know I am certainly not a runner, so this was a tough ask.  Some days were a breezy 2km, others, due to other commitments on previous days, saw me face a mountain of a 10km run, but we completed the challenge and more importantly started this important conversation. 

Remember, ask, talk, care and share.

Freddie Riley