Movember will now address an expanded number of key mental health challenges affecting men in the areas of prevention and promotion, early intervention and destigmatisation.

Movember CEO and co-founder Adam Garone has announced that Movember will expand its strategic priorities for men’s mental health in Australia.  In line with Movember’s global mental health strategy recently approved by the Movember Board, Movember will now address an expanded number of key mental health challenges affecting men – including but not limited to anxiety and depression.

Adam Garone says of the new strategy, “Many of the Mo Bros and Mo Sistas that participate in the campaign have had their lives touched by mental illness. Movember acknowledges their commitment to raising funds and awareness, by investing in innovative interventions and research programs for mental health. Over the past 12 months we have reviewed our global mental health strategy, and decided to prioritise our men’s mental health investment in the areas of prevention and promotion, early intervention and destigmatisation - across the spectrum of mental health issues faced by men.”

Over the past 10 years, Movember has worked exclusively with beyondblue to address depression and anxiety. Movember will continue its partnership with beyondblue, including an annual investment of $2 million for beyondblue’s support service. In addition, over the coming months Movember looks forward to announcing, in partnership with beyondblue, several major new initiatives funded by the proceeds of previous Movember campaigns.

The expansion of Movember’s strategic priorities beyond depression and anxiety has led Movember to change the way it funds projects. A significant proportion of the funds raised from 2013 will be invested via a Request for Proposals – inviting stakeholders across the mental health community to develop collaborative proposals in line with Movember’s strategic priorities.

Jason Hincks Movember’s Chief Operating Officer says, “We are humbled by the extraordinary efforts of Mo Bros and Mo Sistas around the globe, who not only raise funds but awareness for men’s health. In the area of men’s mental health, Australian Mo Bros and Mo Sistas will now raise funds for a broad range of outstanding programs, making a significant impact on the face of men’s mental health in Australia.”