The statistics are very concerning: 3 in 4 suicides in the U.S. are by men. On World Suicide Prevention Day, Movember, the leading charity dedicated to changing the face of men’s health, is urging men to be a Man of More Words by talking more when they’re going through tough times and experiencing mental health challenges. In an effort produced with Ad Council Edge, the Ad Council’s new strategic consultancy, male celebrities and content creators speak openly about their feelings and mental health experiences to encourage other men to do the same.
The new videos and social content feature personal stories from actors, musicians and creators Jordan Fisher, Scott Sire, Matt Santoro, Logan Henderson, Jonathan Bennett and Raymond Braun, along with Bryant Wood, Matt King, Justin Mikita and Eric Bigger.
“I hope that by opening up, other men will be encouraged to talk about what they’re going through,” said Fisher. “An individual that was part of the gaming community was lost to suicide and it really hit close to home. We need to make sure there’s a space for everyone to be heard, so they can get the support they need.”
According to Movember research1 announced today, more than one-third of men in the U.S. say they have not talked about their feelings to avoid being perceived as less manly. This is despite the fact that the majority of men (77 percent) say they believe talking to others is an effective way to deal with problems.
“Many men throughout the country suffer in silence, in large part due to social and cultural pressures and outdated stereotypes of what it is to be a man,” said Mark Hedstrom, Executive Director, Movember US. “We have to change that — we’re losing too many dads, fathers, brothers, partners and friends. This campaign features authentic and relatable personal stories to break the stigma and empower men to be a man of more words.”
The new campaign includes a series of videos and social content highlighting the importance of speaking openly about mental health challenges and experiences. In the content, well-known men discuss memorable moments in their life and share honest insights into how they were truly feeling on that day. The content will be viewed on Movember platforms, talent channels and additional male-focused media.
To learn more about Movember and how you can be a Man of More Words, visit www.movember.com, and post on social media with #movember #ManOfMoreWords to join the conversation.
If you or someone you know needs help, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (Lifeline) at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or text the Crisis Text Line (text HELLO to 741741). Both services are free and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
