Movember: Running for Mental Health, as 40% of UK Men Don’t Talk About it
The simple habit helping men open up this Movember
As we’re now almost halfway through Movember, the month dedicated to men’s mental health, consider this: two in five men in the UK (40%) have never spoken to anyone about their mental health.
According to the suicide prevention charity Samaritans, men are three times more likely to die by suicide than women in England. Yet, only 36% of NHS referrals for psychological therapies are for men, and 40% of men in the UK have never spoken to anyone about their mental health, with many saying they’re too embarrassed or worried about stigma.
Men are often told to tough it out, to keep it together. But when life gets heavy, waiting for help isn’t always an option. The question is: what can we do right now to look after ourselves and each other?
How running helps mental health, backed by science
Running can help to prevent or reduce symptoms of depression. Different studies show that for mild to moderate depression, running therapy can be as effective as antidepressants, and should be considered as an alternative or complementary treatment.
Recent research reinforces this, showing that regular vigorous exercise can reduce the risk of developing depression or anxiety disorders by 25% over five years.
Every number is a real person. It could be the dad who runs before work to clear his head, the friend who chooses a parkrun instead of the pub, or the runner who feels calmer with each step. Running is not a cure for everything, but it is a proven way to support your mental health, one day at a time.
Jon Wild, Brand Director at Ronhill and former professional athlete, adds: “Whether you are dealing with small worries, work stress or big life-changing moments, running is a way to step back from situations, relax, decompress and reassess things. Running gives you the opportunity for time to yourself, or with friends; time to reflect or forget about situations and generally take some time away from life’s worries. And that’s before the science and research comes into it…”
Here’s a five-step expert guide to start running this Movember for better mental health
1. Start small, stay steady
You don’t need to go far or fast. Try starting off with Couch to 5K, and alternate between walking and running if you’re a beginner. Three short sessions a week are enough. Consistency trumps intensity.
2. Gear up for comfort
A good kit really matters. Try to choose shoes for your stride and breathable layers that will suit all weather. Running in the dark? Stay visible with reflective gear. Safety is self-care.
3. Warm up, cool down, listen in
Take five to 10 minutes before and after every run to warm up and stretch to avoid injury. A bit of fatigue is normal; pain isn’t. Listen to your body and your mind. Some days will feel heavier than others, and that’s okay. Remember, you are running to enjoy yourself.
4. Track how you feel
Log your runs. Note not just distance or time, but how you felt before and after. It’s powerful to see progress, not just in pace but in peace of mind. It can also boost your mental health if you can see how much you’re improving with each run.
5. Don’t run alone
Join a local group or bring a mate. Running together builds connection, and that’s what men need most. When you’re ready, take your first step. Invite a friend, find a local run group, or start your own routine. Plenty of places, such as pubs and cafes, have launched their own rub clubs, which involve getting together for a coffee afterwards. Making it a great place to talk. Choose one way to move this Movember, and let’s support each other every step of the way.
Remember: Every runner you see started exactly where you are now. One step at a time.
If you are struggling this Movember, please reach out for professional support – speak to your GP, contact the mental health charity Mind, or call Samaritans on 116 123, who are available 24 hours a day.
Written by Oliver Carter, Marketing Manager at Ronhill