Movember challengers encourage students to ‘not bottle it up inside’

Every November, thousands of men across the world put down their razors and let their moustaches grow. This year, GCU Students’ Association Vice President SHLS ThankGod Obiani and student Nathan ChangLeng are taking on the challenge.

As well as documenting their hair growth – we have interviewed the pair about the stigma and fear of reaching out and asking for help when you need it.

Movember is more than just a facial hair growing trend, it is a global movement deep rooted in raising awareness and money for men’s health charities.

The issues raised are prostate cancer, testicular cancer and just as importantly encouraging men to speak openly about their mental health problems.

The importance of Movember campaigns is significant in creating a space for men around the world to have conversations and check for any signs of testicular cancer.

We spoke to both ThankGod and Nathan to find out why they wanted to take part in the challenge.

ThankGod Obiani: ‘Reaching out is the bravest thing you can do’

As a Full Time Officer, why was it important for you to get behind the Movember campaign and help raise awareness of men's mental health?

“As a Full-Time Officer, my role is to represent and support all students. I wanted to help raise awareness of an issue that affects many students and men's mental health is an issue that deserves much greater attention.

"If even one student feels more comfortable reaching out because of this campaign, then it has made a real difference.”

Why do you think conversations around men's mental health are still sometimes difficult to have, and how can we break down those barriers?

“Many men grow up hearing messages that they should be strong, independent, and avoid showing vulnerability. While attitudes are changing, these expectations can still make it difficult to talk openly about mental health. Many men still feel pressure to appear strong and handle challenges alone.

“We can break down these barriers by normalising conversations, sharing personal experiences, promoting positive role models, and creating environments where people feel safe to speak without fear of judgement.

“The more we talk about mental health, the less stigma there is around it.”

What more do you think universities and student communities can do to support men who may be struggling in silence?

“Universities can continue investing in accessible wellbeing services, peer support programmes, and awareness campaigns that specifically engage men. Student communities can help by creating spaces where students can connect, build friendships, and have honest conversations about how they're feeling.

“Sometimes support starts with a simple check-in from a friend. It's important that every student knows where to access help and feels confident that support is available when they need it.”

What advice would you give to a student who was struggling and worried to talk about their feelings?

“I would tell them that they do not have to carry everything on their own. Talking about what you're going through can feel difficult, but it is often the first step towards feeling better.

“You don't need to have all the right words or explain everything perfectly. Start with someone you trust, whether that's a friend, family member, lecturer, student adviser, or counsellor.

“Reaching out for support is not a weakness; it's one of the bravest things you can do.”

Nathan Changleng: ‘Don’t bottle it up inside’

Why did you get involved in the Movember challenge?

“I got involved in the Movember challenge because I wanted to help spread the word about the importance of looking after your mental health. I am passionate about raising awareness of men’s mental health, particularly as someone who has experienced difficulties with their own mental health and understands the toll it can take.

“I often think about how different things could have been if I had known and accepted that it was okay to seek support and that I didn’t have to face my situation alone.

“I want to make sure men know that seeking support isn’t a sign of weakness, and that having someone willing to listen without judgement and offer meaningful advice can make a world of difference.”

What challenges do young men face when it comes to mental health?

“As a university student, I recognise that young men face pressures from stereotypes and expectations, such as the idea that men shouldn’t show their emotions, that seeking support isn’t what a man should do, and that they should instead bottle things up.

“These expectations can take a serious toll on mental health, particularly when someone feels they have to deal with everything on their own.

“Nobody should have to face difficulties alone, and having someone they trust to open up to can make a real difference, even if it’s just someone willing to listen.

“Young men can also feel pressure not to speak up in groups because they worry about being judged or how others might react. I understand that, as a man, opening up can be difficult, especially within your friendship group. There can be a fear that your friends might mock you for being honest about how you truly feel.

“This can make it difficult to know who you can trust to open up to without worrying about being mocked or seen as weak.”

What message would you give to other male students who are struggling with their mental health?

“My message to other male students who are struggling with their mental health is this: don’t bottle it up inside.

“Talk to someone and let it out. I understand that opening up isn’t always easy, and it doesn’t have to be all at once. These things take time, but gradually, you’ll begin to see a difference.

“Sometimes, simply getting things off your chest and talking about how you feel can make things a little easier.”

If you are struggling, you can reach out to GCU’s Student Wellbeing Team for support.

Follow the rest of their journey on GCU Student Life social media channels.

By Lucy Rodgers

Got a story you’d like to share with me? Email me at lucy.rodgers@gcu.ac.uk or connect with me onLinkedIn.