Men's mental health in spotlight during November

Published on November 07, 2025

The Oak Park Public Health Department wishes everyone a Happy Movember! (No, that’s not a typo).

In early November as we adjust to the earlier sunsets and sweater weather, many health advocates recognize this month as a time to focus on men’s health. What started as a movement encouraging men to grow a mustache and post about it on social media to raise funds for men’s health has grown into a larger campaign to increase awareness about men’s health, both physical and mental.

Nationally, men die by suicide at a rate four times higher than women, and only 4 in 10 men who need mental health care get it. The stigma about asking for help and talking about emotional stress can cause men to delay seeking the help they need.

How can you start a conversation about mental health this Movember? Remember A-L-E-C.

• Ask. Have you noticed a friend has dropped out of the group chat? Do they sound different when you catch up? It can be impactful to simply check in on someone to see how they are doing. Ask something like “You haven’t seemed quite like yourself lately. Are you feeling OK?”
• Listen. After asking your opening question, give the person your full attention. You don’t need solve all of someone’s problems. Just providing a listening ear and asking follow-up questions to learn more goes a long way.
• Encourage action. Help them focus on a simple thing that can improve their mindset. Can they add a little movement like a walk or jog into their day? Can they go to bed a little earlier to get better sleep? If they have been feeling low for more than a couple of weeks, suggest they chat with their doctor.
• Check in. Follow-up after a few days or a week. This will remind the person you are still thinking about them, and gives you the chance to see if they are feeling any better.

If you or anyone you know are struggling with thoughts of suicide, dial or text 988 to talk to someone who can help.

Find more information about Movember at movember.com.

For more information about the Oak Park Health Department, visit www.oak-park.us/health or contact health@oak-park.us.