Every month there is a range of national health promotion campaigns in the UK. In November there are initiatives for many major health promotion areas. Some of these run for the whole month, some are week long initiatives and some stand out for one day. Here is a synopsis of the campaigns should you want to learn more or join in:
- Movember: Movember started in 2004 and the focus then was on prostate cancer. The brief has now widened to focus on men’s health in general. The movement particularly emphasises the high death rate amongst men due to suicide. It is also associated with fundraising by growing a moustache. You can now get involved through other events and initiatives, which is a good thing because some of us really struggle to grow moustaches but would still want to show our support!
- International Stress Awareness Week runs between 02-06 November. It is sponsored by the International Stress Awareness Association. There is an online Global Summit organised across the week for this year. They have some interesting events. Alastair Campbell is one of the speakers and Dr Andrew Sharman will be talking about happiness. Follow the link to join up!
- Alcohol Awareness Week runs between 16-22 November. This is promoted by the charity Alcohol Change UK. The theme this year is Alcohol and Mental Health. Their website has many interesting and thought-provoking factsheets on the physical and mental health effects of high alcohol consumption
- Anti-Bullying Week is sponsored by the Anti-Bullying Alliance and runs between 16-20 November. Their specific fund raising day is 16 November – Odd Socks Day
- The Campaign of 16 Days of Action Against Domestic Violence starts on 25 November. It is supported by Public Health England. Access the website above for information on the various topics within this area of abuse
There are many initiatives to stimulate you to learn more, get involved and possibly change your health profile and habits in the short or long term.