Movember

Focusing on male student health

Research by the National Union of Students (NUS) in 2020 found that male students are less likely to seek help for mental health problems compared to female students, leading to a higher risk of serious consequences such as substance abuse, academic difficulties, and suicide. 

While this is serious in itself, a 2024 Movember report found that men in the UK, compared with women, are more likely to smoke, drink alcohol, have high cholesterol and high blood pressure, and use drugs. In 2021, men in England were more likely to be classed as overweight/obese (i.e. with a BMI of 25+) than women (69% vs 59%). Men are also more likely to die from substance abuse (35% more likely than women), self-harm and interpersonal violence (109%) and transport injuries (85%). 

The high risk activities often undertaken by men, coupled with the reluctance to reach out and talk to others and seek support is a real worry for many. We’re not just looking at men here, the impact on men’s health influences not only the men themselves, but friends, girlfriends, partners, family, lecturers, tutors and anyone you know. 

What's happening for 2025

This Movember, we are building on last year's successful campaign in shining a spotlight on male student’s mental health. Over the month we will be bringing you videos and blogs from our male students, who openly talk about their mental health struggles and the importance in reaching out for help.  

We’ll be sharing support tips for you, your friends and anyone you know and where you can access the support. We’ll be across campus to provide spaces for you to come and talk with our team from Student Life. We’ll also give you the low-down on all events taking place for men’s mental health throughout November as well as the fundraising total for Movember 2025. 

We will also launch our podcast, a four-part series produced by Student Life and Student Wellbeing. Each episode will cover a range of important topics, including the stigma surrounding seeking help, suicide, masculinity, and much more. Listeners can expect to hear real stories, personal reflections, and valuable guidance on accessing support.