For too long, men’s mental health has been a silent struggle. Society has conditioned men to be strong, stoic, and resilient, often at the expense of their wellbeing. But when it comes to speaking up and reaching for help this is a sign of pure strength in my eyes. This is why Bike n Blend have always supported initiatives like Movember events and R U OK? Day events – to start conversations, bring people together and share stories that impact all too many of us.
Almost to the day, 20 years ago my Dad took his life. I have not spoken much about it until now. Sharing it with you all is a big step. I am strong enough now to share my pain so it can hopefully help others to be brave and turn to a friend to help before it is too late. Because 3307 Australians died by suicide in 2024 and males are around 3 times more likely to die by suicide than females. Behind every number is a life which was valued and will be missed.
(Source https://www.suicidepreventionaust.org/news/statsandfacts).
As the owner of a pop-up events company that promotes health and well-being, I’ve seen firsthand the power of community, connection, and open conversation. And yet, for years, I struggled to talk about my own story.
Movember: More Than Just a Moustache
Movember is a movement that has done incredible work in bringing men’s health – both physical and mental – into the spotlight. While many recognise it as the time of year when men grow mustaches, the initiative goes far beyond facial hair. It’s about starting conversations, raising awareness, and funding programs that support men struggling with mental health challenges. Every Movember event, big or small, adds another voice to that conversation, and every workplace or community that gets involved helps chip away at the stigma a little more.
The Importance of Speaking Up
I know firsthand how hard it can be to open up. Many men worry about being seen as weak or burdening others with their struggles. But the reality is, talking about your feelings isn’t a weakness; it’s one of the strongest things you can do.
When we share our stories, we not only help ourselves, but we also create a safe space for others to do the same. If my dad had felt like he could open up, maybe things would have been different. That thought fuels my commitment to making conversations about mental health more accessible, especially in corporate spaces where stress and pressure often go unspoken.
Creating Change One Movember Event At A Time
For businesses, incorporating mental health initiatives into the workplace isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s essential. Employees who feel supported and valued are more productive, engaged, and, most importantly, happier. From wellness programs to simply encouraging open conversations, every effort makes a difference.
This is where a well-planned Movember event activity can be so powerful. It doesn’t need to be complicated or clinical to have an impact. Sometimes the simplest activities create the most space for genuine conversation. Getting a team together around something hands-on and a little bit fun, like our blender bikes, gives people a natural reason to stand shoulder to shoulder, chat, and check in on one another without the pressure of a formal sit-down conversation. There’s something about pedalling together to make a smoothie that puts people at ease and opens the door to talking about things that matter.
We design every activation to be an inclusive event activation — something that works for every team member, regardless of fitness level, age, or role in the business. That inclusivity matters, because mental health conversations should never be limited to certain people or certain teams. Everyone deserves a seat at the table, or in this case, a spot on the bike.
If you’re planning a Movember event for your workplace this year, consider pairing it with a simple prompt for the day: ask people how they’re really doing, and really listen to the answer. Combine that with an activity that gets people moving, talking, and laughing together, and you’ve created something far more meaningful than a one-off fundraiser; you’ve created a moment of genuine connection.
Let’s Talk and Take Action
If you’re struggling, please know that you are not alone. There is strength in reaching out, in sharing, and in seeking support. I called Beyond Blue on several occasions over the years. It was hard at first (as I felt so sad I could hardly talk) but I knew it had to be done. It helped. A lot.
This Movember, let’s go beyond the mustache. Let’s start open conversations. Let’s check in on our mates. Let’s create workplaces where mental health is as much of a priority as physical health. Let’s start at dedicated Movember events, to get the conversation going.
And for those of us who have lost someone, let’s honour them by breaking the silence. I share my story in the hope that it encourages others to share theirs. Together, we can change the way we talk about men’s mental health — for this generation and the next.
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Some resources that may help:
BEYOND BLUE 1300 224 636
Call on chat online 24/7. Get advice, referrals, and support from a trained mental health professional
LIFELINE 13 11 14
Call 24/7 for crisis support and suicide prevention services.
Text 0477 13 11 14 6.00 pm – Midnight (AEST), 7 days a week.
MENS LINE AUSTRALIA 1300 78 99 78
Call 24/7 for professional counselling support.
PODCAST:
From Stigma to Strength: Gus Worland’s Mission to Promote Mental Fitness
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