Moustache + November = MOVEMBER | Let’s Grow Together | Ramneek Bhogal
Ramneek S. Bhogal, DC, DABCI - Woodstock, GA
Every November, you might notice a few more mustaches popping up around town, and it’s not just a quirky fashion choice. It’s part of the Movember movement, a global effort to raise awareness about men’s health issues, from mental well-being to prostate cancer. I want to talk about why growing a mustache this November is more than just a bit of fun—it’s a statement for men’s health.
As I recently celebrated circling the sun for five full decades—one undeniable truth came to light. I realized just how much my mental health was yoked to open communication and vulnerability. For many men, acknowledging those needs can be a challenge, and that’s exactly why something like Movember can be so powerful. It’s not just about growing a mustache; it’s about growing the conversation around men’s mental health and making it OKAY to talk about it.
It’s a sobering reality that men often find it harder to open up about their struggles. Statistics show that men are less likely to seek help for mental health issues, and as a result, they can be at higher risk for issues like addiction, depression or even suicide. But beyond those stark numbers, there’s another complication: the silent toll on relationships. When men don’t feel able to communicate, it can lead to breakdowns not just in their own well-being, but also in their connections with partners, children, and even colleagues. Movember brings these realities to light, reminding us that a simple conversation can be a bridge to healing and stronger, healthier relationships.
So, the next time you spot someone sporting a new or slightly atypical mustache this November, let it be a gentle reminder. Take a moment to reflect on the important men in your life and consider leaning in with a conversation or act of kindness. It can be as simple as asking how they’re really doing or offering them a safe space to talk about what’s on their mind, or more importantly, their heart. By opening up these lines of communication, you’re not just supporting them—you’re also helping to break down the stigma around vulnerability and authenticity. Let’s let a mustache in November be a conversation starter that leads to real connection and care. It could save a relationship, or a life.
As those November mustaches grow, remember that a little facial hair can spark a whole lot of heart. After all, it’s not just about looking a bit more dashing—it’s about shaving off the stigma and trimming down those barriers, and stashing the fear around this men’s health issue, one whisker at a time!
-Ramneek