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Movember

Five things men should know and do when it comes to their health.

As we dive into Movember, let’s highlight some essential tips for men’s health and overall well-being. At KvLS Mental Health Support, we believe that small, consistent actions can make a huge difference.

Keeping in line with Movember, here are five things every man should keep in mind to support their health, boost resilience, and maintain a strong foundation for life’s ups and downs.

The first of five things men should know and do when it comes to their health:

Spend time with people who make you feel good.

As we kick off Movember, let’s talk about one of the most important things you can do for your mental and physical well-being: spending time with people who lift you up. It’s no secret that friends and social connections are essential to our health, especially for men, who may not always feel comfortable talking about their feelings. This month, let’s focus on making time for people who make you laugh, encourage you, and remind you of what’s good in life.

Regular time with friends, family, or community groups can reduce stress, boost your mood, and even improve physical health. But we know it can sometimes feel hard to connect, especially when life gets busy or stressful.

We discovered a great way to get out, make connections, and work on meaningful projects is by joining a local Men’s Shed. Men’s Sheds are community spaces designed for men to come together, work on hands-on projects, and build friendships without pressure. Here, you’ll find guys who share your interests, know what it’s like to deal with life’s ups and downs, and won’t mind listening or sharing advice (if you want it). Many men say that joining a Men’s Shed has been one of the best decisions they’ve made for their health.

So, this Movember, give yourself permission to enjoy the company of good people. Whether it’s through a Men’s Shed, a sports group, or just catching up with a friend, remember that taking care of yourself isn’t a solo journey—sometimes, the best steps forward are the ones we take together.

Find your shed here.

The second of five things men should know and do when it comes to their health:

Talk, more.

It might seem simple, but talking—really talking—can be one of the most powerful things you do for your mental health. Sharing your thoughts, worries, or just how your day went can make a difference in your mood, help you process challenges, and connect you more closely with those around you.

Many men feel a pressure to keep their feelings to themselves. But research shows that opening up, even just a little bit, can significantly reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and even reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Whether it’s talking to friends, family, or a counsellor, the benefits of speaking your mind are real.

If you’re not sure where to begin, start small. You don’t need to dive into heavy topics right away. Talk about things that interest you, mention what’s been on your mind, or check in with others. As you get comfortable, you’ll find it easier to express how you’re really doing. And if it feels challenging, that’s completely okay! A lot of men feel the same way, but they’re often glad they took that first step.

If you’re looking for more structured support, consider talking to us at KvLS or even joining a group setting like Men’s Sheds (scroll up a little). There’s no pressure to go deep right away, and often just being in a supportive environment can make opening up feel more natural.

So this Movember, let’s all aim to talk a little more. You’ll find that it not only helps lighten your load but also strengthens your relationships and well-being.

What do you want to talk about?

The third of five things men should know and do when it comes to their health:

Know your numbers.

When it comes to taking control of your health, knowledge is power—and that starts with knowing your numbers. Key health indicators like blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and body weight can tell you a lot about what’s going on inside. Understanding these numbers and keeping them in check can help you prevent or catch issues like heart disease, diabetes, and other health conditions before they become serious.

As men, it’s easy to push off health checks, but taking time to learn your numbers is a straightforward way to protect your long-term health. A quick check-up can help you set a baseline and let you monitor changes over time. Plus, when you’re aware of these numbers, you’re in a better position to take action if something doesn’t look right.

Getting these checks doesn’t have to be a hassle. Many pharmacies or GP surgeries offer basic health screenings that are quick and easy. Movember is a great time to book an appointment if you haven’t done so in a while. It’s not about perfection; it’s about awareness and catching potential issues early.

If it helps, set a reminder on your phone for an annual check-up. Knowing your numbers can empower you to make informed choices for a healthier lifestyle, whether that means making small changes to diet, incorporating exercise, or managing stress better.

This Movember, take a moment to check in with yourself—and your health. Knowing your numbers today can make a big difference for your future.

Please be aware that we at KvLS do not give medical advice; above are suggestions forward and common sense 🙂

The fourth of five things men should know and do when it comes to their health:

Know thy nuts. Simple.

When it comes to men’s health, this might sound a bit cheeky, but it’s crucial: know thy nuts. Testicular cancer is one of the most common cancers among younger men, and early detection is key. Getting familiar with what’s normal for you can help you spot any changes early on—so yes, it’s time to get hands-on.

Most cases of testicular cancer are found by the men themselves, which means knowing what’s normal can be lifesaving. It’s simple, too. Just check in with yourself every month or so. Look for any lumps, swelling, or changes in size or shape, and if anything feels off, don’t ignore it. If you’re not sure what you’re feeling or something seems unusual, make an appointment with your GP.

This Movember, let’s take a no-nonsense approach to taking care of ourselves. Know your body, know your health—know thy nuts.

The fifth of five things men should know and do when it comes to their health:

Move, more.

One of the simplest but most powerful things you can do for your health is to move more. Regular physical activity isn’t just about fitness; it’s about feeling better, boosting your mood, and lowering your risk for many health issues.

Even small amounts of movement can make a big difference. Studies show that men who stay active are less likely to experience physical health problems and even mental health challenges. Movement helps your body stay strong and your mind stay sharp, making it one of the best gifts you can give yourself.

You do not have to run a marathon.. It can be as simple as taking a brisk walk, cycling to work, or stretching in the morning. Find an activity you enjoy—whether it’s joining a local sports team, heading to the park, or even working on projects at a Men’s Shed (see a previous post). Aim to get your body moving every day, even if it’s just for a few minutes at a time.

This Movember, let’s make moving a priority. Start where you are, with whatever feels good, and keep moving forward—for your physical health, your mental well-being, and your future self.

How can we support you with this?

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