Movember events for mental health, well-being begin Nov. 2

Western Washington University's second annual Movember month of events to support male-identifying individuals' mental health and well-being begins Nov. 2 on campus.

While Movember is traditionally focused on the health of only male-identifying people, WWU’s Movember focuses on the mental health of all identities, with featured activities for men’s resiliency. Those participating in WWU’s Movember are helping raise awareness about mental health, resiliency and suicide prevention among all people.

Healthy Minds Fair: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 2 and 3 in the VU MPR

The 2nd Annual Healthy Minds Fair is part of a campaign for upstream suicide prevention. Upstream suicide prevention focuses on increasing use of mental health resources, reducing mental health stigma, building resilience, and promoting positive community and peer support. The fair will offer relaxation stations including massage therapists (LMPs) and therapy dogs, information from several campus and community resources and identity groups, tips on healthy coping skills, and activities on stress reduction.

The Lives of Veterans After Military Service: A Portrait of the Last 75 Years: 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Nov. 9 in the VU MPR

A ceremony recognizing Western Washington University's Veterans. In collaboration with the College of Humanities and Social Sciences Dean's Lecture Series, Professor Jay Teachman will give a lecture entitled "The Lives of Veterans After Military Service: A Portrait of the Last 75 Years". Remarks by President Bruce Sheppard as well as student veterans. No Fee. Reception to follow.

Move for Movember at WWU Dodgeball Tournament: 7 p.m. Nov. 12 in the Wade King Student Recreation Center

Part of being one’s best and healthiest self is finding activities you enjoy doing.  Often, these activities also happen to get your body moving. In fact, people who choose to exercise regularly have reported decreased symptoms of depression and anxiety. Join the intramural dodgeball teams in their dodgeball tournament, and begin your journey to a healthier you! If you enjoy quick bouts of balls whizzing through the air and promoting healthy minds and bodies, then dodgeball and this tournament are for you! 

Kevin Hines: Cracked, Not Broken: 7 p.m. Nov. 16 in the VU MPR

Kevin Hines is a speaker, author, and mental health advocate who reaches audiences with his story of an unlikely survival and his strong will to live. At 19, he attempted to take his own life by jumping from the Golden Gate Bridge. Kevin is the only survivor who is actively spreading the message of living mentally healthy. In 2013, Kevin released his memoir entitled, Cracked Not Broken: The Kevin Hines Story. It has continued to sell out and is on several bestsellers’ lists. Kevin’s will to live and stay mentally well has inspired people worldwide.

Walk of Hope: 7 p.m. Nov. 19 in the VU MPR

The Walk of Hope will create a space where the community can discuss and help break down the stigmas surrounding depression and suicide. The evening will include student and faculty speakers who will share how suicide has personally affected their lives, and a walk around campus to honor those who have been impacted by suicide. The goal of this event is to encourage hope in our community and increase awareness regarding suicide and suicide prevention.