International Men’s Day Campaign

International Men’s Day’s month-long campaign this year celebrates men’s educational journeys they face throughout their lives, including educational attainment and re-skilling – a factor much under review in the wake of the lockdown.

From a health perspective, the campaign places a focus on workplace deaths, life expectancy and disease, such as male cancers. The campaign also shines a light on male victims and survivors of sexual abuse, rape, sexual exploitation, domestic abuse, forced marriage, honour-based crime, stalking and slavery. The campaign further offers a voice to men who find themselves homeless or in care, and examines the high male death rate in custody and men as victims of violence

As International Men’s Day takes place, we should all encourage the men in our life to:  

• Connect with others
• Help and support others
• Talk about your worries
• Look after your physical well-being
• Get enough sleep
• Try to manage difficult feelings
• Do things you enjoy
• Set goals
• Keep your mind active
• Take time to relax and focus on the present
• Get some fresh air

For more help and advice on managing feelings and relaxation techniques visit Every Mind Matters and NHS’ mindfulness page and NHS mental wellbeing audio guides

Lifeline is the Northern Ireland crisis response helpline service for people who are experiencing distress or despair. People living in Northern Ireland can call Lifeline on 0808 808 8000.