Movember and Men’s Health: Checking In on the Dads We Love

Because every man secretly wants to grow a Tom Selleck-style mo

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Let’s be honest… Movember is partly about the moustaches. Every year, plenty of men embrace the chance to channel their inner Tom Selleck or Magnum P.I. It’s one of the few months they can proudly rock a questionable mo and call it charity work.

But beyond the laughs and selfies, Movember serves a bigger purpose. Iit’s a reminder to look after men’s health, both physical and mental.

For many families, it’s also a gentle nudge for partners to check in on the dads and father figures in our lives – because they’re often the ones who need support the most, but talk about it the least.

Why men still find it hard to talk about how they’re feeling

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Women are often raised in circles of connection. We text our friends when we’re feeling off. We talk, cry, vent, laugh… and then we talk some more.

Men, on the other hand, are often taught (even subtly) that being “strong” means keeping things together. Even if they have mates they see every weekend, those friendships might not include much space for real vulnerability.

It’s not that men don’t want to open up… it’s that many haven’t been shown how.
There’s still that old notion of masculinity that says emotions make you weak. 

But it’s 2025, and thankfully, that narrative is shifting. Vulnerability isn’t weakness… It’s courage. And when dads, partners and mates feel safe to be open, everyone benefits. Sometimes it just takes one guy in the group to open up, for the rest to follow-suit. 

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When dads struggle (and don’t say it out loud)

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We often talk about how much motherhood can shake your identity… but fatherhood can be just as complex.

It’s surprisingly common for men to experience postpartum depression or adjustment struggles in those first months of becoming a dad. The change in routine, sleep deprivation, and pressure to “hold it together” can all take their toll.

According to the Raising Children Network, around 1 in 10 new dads experience postnatal depression , and often quietly, without saying much.
Sometimes it looks like frustration, zoning out, overworking, or withdrawing from family life. And it’s not just in the early days… The emotional and mental challenges associated with being a dad can persist for years into fatherhood.

If you notice these shifts, it doesn’t mean he’s “failing” at being a dad — it might mean he’s overwhelmed and unsure how to ask for help.

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How to open the door for conversation (without making it weird)

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If your partner isn’t one to talk about his feelings, it can be tricky to know where to start. The key? Keep it casual, not clinical.

Try small check-ins:

• “You’ve had a lot going on… are you doing okay?”
• “You don’t seem like yourself lately. Want to go for a walk and talk it out?”
• Or even a lighthearted, “How’s the headspace, coach?” – Humour is great way to disarm and soften the moment.

Choose neutral spaces: the car, a walk, over dinner. Avoid making it feel like an interrogation.

And if he does open up, just listen. Don’t rush to fix it or reassure, and just hold the space.
Sometimes, knowing you’ve noticed is enough to help him feel seen.

Why mates matter (even if they don’t talk about feelings)

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You might look at your partner and think, “He’s fine… he has heaps of mates.”
But having friends and having safe friendships aren’t the same thing.

Many men’s friendships are built on shared activities like sport, banter and beers, which are great for connection but don’t always leave room for deeper talk.

Movember research shows that men who feel socially isolated are twice as likely to experience mental health issues. So, gentle encouragement to keep up those friendships is actually a wellbeing boost.

If your partner doesn’t have close mates nearby, help him find ways to connect –  join a local dads’ group, a sport, or even volunteer through Movember’s community programs.

Because while talking to you is important, men also need other men who get it.

The health checks that make a difference

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Movember is also a great time to remind the men in our lives to look after their physical health too… those simple checks that often get postponed “until next year.”

The essentials:

• Prostate health: If he’s 50+ (or 45 with family history), encourage a GP chat about testing.
• Testicular checks: Quick monthly self-checks for lumps or changes — especially for younger men.
• Heart health: Regular blood pressure, cholesterol, and lifestyle checks — small prevention, big impact.

Try to frame the request as care, instead of nagging. You might say, “I’m booking my own check-up… why don’t you do yours too?”

Make it a shared routine, not a lecture.

Signs he might be struggling emotionally

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Sometimes dads don’t say they’re struggling. They show it in quieter ways.

Keep an eye out for things like:

• Irritability or short temper 
• Withdrawing from family or social activities 
• Sleeping poorly or overworking 
• Saying he’s “just tired” all the time 
• Drinking or zoning out more than usual 

If this sounds familiar, a gentle conversation can help. If things seem heavy, encourage him to talk to his GP or call MensLine Australia (1300 78 99 78) or Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) for free support.

Small shifts that help dads feel supported

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It doesn’t take grand gestures… just small, consistent actions that say “I see you.”

Try:

• Making time for shared downtime with no phones, no kids, just connection
• Encouraging him to do something purely for himself (surf, gym, golf, whatever fills his cup)
• Celebrating his efforts, not just his output (“I love that you’re such a hands-on dad – the kids adore you”)
• Keeping humour alive, because laughter is still one of the best remedies for stress

And remember, supporting him doesn’t mean ignoring your own needs. You both deserve rest, space, and care.

The heart of Movember

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Movember might start with “a dirty moustache”… a little scruffy, a little ridiculous — but that’s exactly the point. It gets people talking.

It’s a reminder that health and vulnerability aren’t “unmanly” — they’re human.

So this November, let’s celebrate the dads, partners, brothers, uncles, and mates who are there for everyone else, and remind them it’s okay to let someone be there for them too.

Because real strength isn’t silence.
It’s honesty… And maybe a half-decent Tom Selleck style mo.

FAQ

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Q: Why is Movember important for dads?
A: Movember raises awareness for men’s health – from prostate and testicular cancer to mental wellbeing, encouraging dads to prioritise their health and open up about how they feel.

Q: Can men get postnatal depression?
A: Yes. Around 1 in 10 new fathers experience postnatal depression or anxiety. It’s treatable, and support is available through GPs, PANDA, and Beyond Blue.

Q: How can I support my partner’s mental health?
A: Small, everyday check-ins. Encourage sleep, connection, and time with mates. Listen without judgement and normalise seeking help.