International Men’s Day: Why Is It Important?
November 2018 | Reading time: 3 minutes
Table of Contents
*TRIGGER WARNING: This article covers issues related to mental health such as suicide.*
International Men’s Day takes place on 19th November every year, in over 60 different countries around the world. In this article, we will explore the purpose of International Men’s Day, and what you can do to celebrate it.
What is it?
International Men’s Day was first celebrated in the early 90s, yet was properly revived by Jerome Teelucksingh in Trinidad and Tobago in 1999. International Women’s Day celebrates the political and social victories of women such as gaining the vote. In contrast, International Men’s Day encourages awareness of issues that affect men’s health, promoting gender equality and celebrating male role models. It is a prime opportunity to talk about challenges that men and boys face, such as violence, sexual abuse and being ostracised from society. Most importantly, it is a day to consider how to aid men in these challenges and make lives better.
Many people use International Men’s Day to highlight the mental health struggles that affect a large proportion of men. The male suicide rate in the UK is worryingly high, as it is estimated that 84 men die by suicide per week. According to a Telegraph article, suicide is the most common cause of death for men under 45. Earlier this year, Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) launched ‘Project 84.’ The charity placed figures of 84 men on rooftops of buildings in London to represent men who die by suicide per week.
The reason that International Men’s Day raises these issues is that societal perceptions of men are partially to blame for these tragic events. It may not seem significant to tell someone to be ‘manly’ or to ‘man up.’ However, in doing so, this causes men to hide their true emotions which can lead to disastrous consequences.
What can I do?
The focus of International Men’s Day this year is on male role models. Take a minute to think about the male figures in your life, whether this is family, friends or a celebrity you follow. If it is someone close to you, make sure they know how important they are in your life and the positive impact they have had.
If you see someone struggling, then be there for them. Break the stigma which prevents men from getting help when they need it. Take part in fundraisers to raise money for men’s health charities. International Men’s Day coincides with Movember, where men grow moustaches to raise awareness and funds for prostate cancer.
Change what it means to ‘be a man’ by spreading awareness of the challenges that men are facing, and joining the discussion that works to improve this for present and future generations. Life is short, so it is crucial that we do whatever we can to help ourselves, and others. Do your bit to promote happiness and show your appreciation for men!
Happy International Men’s Day from the team at VIVO Body Studio!
Related Articles

Embrace the Lifestyle You Deserve: Tips for Living Your Best Life
Simple Steps for Living Your Best Life Living your best life starts with intentional choices. From defining your priorities to...
Spices to naturally boost the immune system
A brief look at four everyday spices that go a long way in helping the body stay healthy and strong....
Are Disney Films Responsible for Poor Millennial Body Image?
In recent years there has been a lot of outrage regarding the appearance of characters in Disney films. Many people...
Embrace a Balanced Lifestyle: Secrets to Living Your Best Life
What is a Balanced Lifestyle?A balanced lifestyle is all about finding harmony between various aspects of your life, such as...
Water Aerobics – Get Fit in Water
Water aerobics has a bit of a reputation for being something that the elderly do but in fact, it's a...
Mindfulness, an Introduction
The benefits of mindfulness Mindfulness could be the missing piece of the puzzle when it comes to looking good and...
How much tea is too much tea?
Drinking tea offers numerous health benefits, paired with a few adverse effects as well. We take a look at how...
Laser Hair Removal Birmingham
Permanent laser hair removal at VIVO Body Studio Birmingham At VIVO Body Studio Birmingham, we use advanced and effective laser...
Intermittent fasting: Should you skip breakfast?
Can intermittent fasting really help you lose weight? Let’s take a look at the possible advantages, or lack thereof, of...
Crafting Your Dream Lifestyle: Tips for Living Your Best Life
Defining Your PrioritiesThe first step in crafting your dream lifestyle is to identify what truly matters to you. Take some...
Make Every Day Stylish
Being stylish is all about knowing how to accentuate your natural beauty while being comfortable in your own skin. (more…)
Embrace the Lifestyle You Deserve: Tips for Living Your Best Life
Discover Your Passion The first step to embracing a fulfilling lifestyle is to identify your passions and interests. What ignites...Happy Customers
1,823 Reviews and CountingMobina carried out this treatment and she is v knowledgable, professional and attentive throughout. I’ve got my next appointment booked & can’t wait to see the results after that session.
I would highly recommend this treatment and Mobina.