Mental Health Champions – Movember 2024

This November, the University of Edinburgh Sports Union sports clubs have proudly embraced the theme of Men’s Mental Health Champions in Sport as part of the global Movember initiative and International Men’s Day celebrations. The month-long campaign has shone a spotlight on men’s health issues, including prostate and testicular cancers and mental health challenges while fostering much-needed conversations to break the stigma surrounding men’s mental health. By raising awareness and normalising conversations about these topics, the more men will feel able to reach out to their friends for support.

“It’s crucial to create spaces where men can be open without feeling confined by hyper-masculine expectations, which often discourage vulnerability and real connection.”

– Frank Rahmatallah, University of Edinburgh Movember Student Ambassador

Creating Safe Spaces: Insights from Andy’s Man Club

This month, we invited Andy’s Man Club, a charity known for its nationwide network of over 150 judgement-free support groups, to deliver a talk on fostering open conversations about mental health. Their weekly Monday meetings, led by trained volunteers, offer men an invaluable opportunity to connect and share experiences in a supportive environment.

Sports Clubs Making a Difference

University of Edinburgh sports clubs have demonstrated their commitment to Movember through a range of initiatives combining awareness-building with fundraising:

The Men’s Rugby Club kicked off their involvement with a wellbeing workshop led by Graham Goulden, focusing on welfare and active bystandership. Their flagship fundraising event, entailing a 2km run every hour for 24 hours, raised an impressive £2,726.64, placing them at the top of the university’s Movember leaderboard.

The Triathlon Club are teaming up with Glasgow University Triathlon Club, members will be taking on an ultramarathon challenge, running a collective 90km to raise funds and awareness.

The combined efforts of the university’s sports clubs have been transformative, with Edinburgh University’s Movember fundraising total currently standing at £11,327.

“All coming together to face a huge challenge for something that is bigger than racing is a big deal and has brought us all closer as a club.”

– Grace Chilton, Wellbeing & Inclusion Officer, Edinburgh University Triathlon Club

How to Check in with a Friend

If you want to check in with a friend and see how they’re doing, remember the ALEC approach:

Ask: Start by mentioning anything different you’ve noticed 

Listen: Give your full attention, then follow up questions - “That can’t be easy, how long have you felt that way?” 

Encourage action: help them focus on simple things that improve wellbeing – “How much sleep are you getting” or “Are you eating/exercising regularly” 

Check in: Suggest a catch=up soon, drop them a message

“The most important part of being there for someone is often simply just listening – making sure they feel heard, believed, and understood.”

– Davis Hedgecoe, Welfare Secretary, Edinburgh University Men’s Rugby Club

Looking after your own mental health is equally important. Simple actions like spending time outdoors, pursuing hobbies, or reaching out to your support network can make a difference.

Find Support

Movember reminds us that no one should face their struggles alone. Together, we can create a culture where men feel supported, valued, and heard.

“After reaching out, I made use of the student support system, which has been fantastic at ensuring I’m not missing out on my studies.”

– Cameron Pace, Member, Edinburgh University Men’s Rugby Club

Whether you’re looking for help or hoping to support others, the following resources are available:

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