Movember beyond November: Mental Health in the Holiday Season

Each November, men are encouraged to check in on their overall health and wellbeing through the Movember movement. To raise awareness for men’s health, men are encouraged to grow a mustache to help start important discussions about mental health, testicular cancer and prostate cancer.

Many City of Springfield employees participate in growing a Movember mustache every year. Check out some of this years ‘staches from our friends at our Springfield Fire Department below:

Mental Health at the Forefront

As we move beyond Movember and into the holiday season, it’s especially important to continue to keep at the forefront how to engage in activities and conversations that support your mental health. A survey by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) showed 64 percent of individuals living with a mental illness reported that their conditions worsened around the holidays.

Support your mental health this holiday season

Supporting your mental health into the holidays can look different for everyone. Support can come in many forms including practicing self-care, avoiding alcohol and drugs and paying attention to your feelings. Additionally, engaging with the people around you can make significant difference.

Spend time with people who make you feel good

Checking in with the people you love and making time to see them on a regular basis is important for your health and theirs. While life can be busy and commitments often get in the way, investing in your relationships can be just you need when the holiday season starts to feel overwhelming. This investment is important. Connection with friends, family, colleagues and professional help when needed can alleviate a mental health occurrence before it becomes a crisis.

Talk about it

Talking about your own mental health or listening to someone talk about theirs can be the reason someone takes the next step toward bettering their mental health. These conversations can start with a simple question, like, “Hey man, you good?” If you experience a friend or peer who seems off this holiday season, keep this phrase in mind. One conversation can save a life.

While the holidays may pose challenges, supporting mental health into the new year through these steps can help. Remember to do what is best for your mental health this holiday season.

Resources

• “Hey man, you good?”-Mental health stigma exists within every demographic space. However, among men over age 45 in Greene County, mental health stigma and lack of care seeking has led to a jarring suicide mortality rate. It’s time to talk about it.
• MentalHealth417.com- a local, online, and interactive resource hub for people seeking treatment, information and education related to mental health.
• Mental Health Check-in-Not feeling like yourself or worried about someone you love this holiday season? Answer questions about your symptoms here to connect with resources that will help you take the next step.
• MentalHealth417 Treatment Finder-Find local treatment options that work for your budget and schedule.
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — If you or someone you know needs support now, contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.