Movember Challenge

Movember is here! And Yellowhead County is raising awareness for men’s health throughout November.

November 1, 2025

What is Movember?
  • Movember is a global movement that focuses on men’s health issues, such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health and suicide prevention. Too many men are dying before their time, many for reasons that are largely preventable.

Why do people grow moustaches for Movember?

  • Encouraging conversation about these issues, and letting men know they aren’t alone, is a huge part of the Movember movement. Growing a moustache, or Mo, is one way to spark conversation and show support!

We will be hosting a Movember Challenge on our Facebook page, please visit our Facebook page if you’re interested in taking part. And don’t forget to check back here throughout the month for Movember information and resources! To learn more, visit https://ca.movember.com.


November 7, 2025

Men are just as likely as anyone to struggle with their mental health, but much less likely to reach out for the help they need. **If you spot a friend whose behaviour is out of character, it’s important to check in with them – it might just save their life.**

Spot a Bro Who’s Feeling Low:
Signs that someone could be struggling might include changes in sleeping, eating, or grooming habits, avoiding social situations and missing events or activities they usually enjoy, going quiet on social media or messaging apps, being more irritable than usual, talking of death/dying or increased hopelessness, etc.

Use the ALEC method to help navigate the conversation:
❓ A – ASK how they’re feeling and mention any changes you’ve picked up on. Try a prompt like, “You haven’t seemed yourself lately – are you feeling okay?” Remember: People often say “I’m fine” when they’re not. So, trust your instinct and don’t be afraid to ask twice.
👂 L – LISTEN and give them your full attention. Let them know you hear what they’re saying, but you’re not judging. You don’t need to diagnose problems or ask solutions, but asking questions lets them know you’re listening (such as “That can’t be easy – how long have you felt this way?”)
📣 E – ENCOURAGE action. Help them focus on simple things that might improve how they feel, and suggest that they share how they’re feeling with others they trust. If they’ve felt low for more than two weeks, suggest they chat to their doctor.
💬C – CHECK IN and follow up on your conversation, whether it be in-person or via a phone call or Facetime. This helps to show that you care, and will give you some insight into whether or not they’re feeling better.

Mental health and suicide are difficult topics to talk about, but providing a safe and encouraging space for someone can make a world of difference.

Learn more about spotting the signs and ALEC at https://ca.movember.com/men-s-health/spot-the-signs.
Find additional resources and information at www.movember.com.


November 14, 2025

Men are suffering in silence “in large part due to 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, brothers, partners, and friends.”

For many men, opening up is a challenge due to social and cultural pressures, but being willing to open up and talk about what’s going on can in turn encourage other men to do the same.

So this Movember, we are encouraging men to Be a Man of More Words – don’t be afraid to talk about what’s going on when you’re experiencing tough times and mental health challenges.

Being a Man of More Words can help break the stigma and empower other men to open up and talk about their mental health.

Hear from some Men of More Words in this video series from Movember: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLaQ_OADSD8YA0RcSC7lGYNuZBnRsuHwBS

Find additional resources and information at www.movember.com.


November 28, 2025

 When it comes to prostate and testicular cancers, early detection is key.

Prostate Cancer:
The difference between early detection and late detection can literally be life and death. The risk of developing prostate cancer increases with age, but that doesn’t mean it’s a disease that only affects young men – in fact, it is the second most common cancer in men worldwide. If you’re 50, you should be talking to your doctor about a simple routine blood test called PSA. If you’re African, Caribbean, or have prostate cancer in your family history, do it at 45.

Testicular Cancer:
Testicular cancer strikes early and is the most common cancer in young Canadian men. While the chances for survival are high, long-term effects can severely compromise quality of life. But when it’s diagnosed and treated early, odds are you’ll come out the other side and live a full and healthy life.

Signs, symptoms, and other info:
Prostate Cancer – https://ca.movember.com/mens-health/prostate-cancer
Testicular Cancer – https://nutsandbolts.movember.com/testicular-cancer-facts/

SHARE these resources with the men in your life and encourage them to pursue medical attention if anything seems abnormal.


December 1, 2025

We also really want to stress the importance of the cause behind this challenge: encouraging men to be proactive with their mental and physical health. Too many men are dying before their time, many for reasons that are largely preventable including prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and suicide.

How can you help the men in your life with these concerns?
– encourage them to be educated on signs and symptoms
– encourage them to pursue medical treatment when needed
– share resources and information
– let them know you’re there if they need a supportive friend

For additional information and resources, visit https://ca.movember.com