County Derry club working to 'shine a light' on men's mental health

November marks Men's Mental Health Awareness Month, and one County Derry club is actively working to 'shine a light' and dismantle social stigmas associated with male emotional well-being- all while raising much needed funds for a great cause.

Borbury Football Club are currently taking part in the ‘Grow-a-Mo’ initiative. This campaign was originally set up to combat men’s health on a global scale- and the ‘Borbury boys’ are doing their part locally.

Twenty players within the club have opted to grow a mustache this month in solidarity with those facing mental health challenges.

Discussing the fundraiser, Spokesperson and co-founder Steven Kelly highlighted that the club’s main goal is to “break social stigma” and to “create a safe space for men to talk”.

“By growing moustaches, we hope to get people talking.  We are raising money for the official Movember charity and our aim is that this will promote the cause and as a result raise money for future research and supports. It’s all about breaking stereotypes and getting men to take charge of their mental health, something that is prevalent in our society and is not always clear to see,” he said.

“As well as our obvious objective to raise money for the cause, we wanted to highlight a safe space for men to openly talk about how they feel.  Although we are fundraising to contribute with the wider conversation, it’s also a cause that hits close to home, and we hope this campaign will encourage our friends and teammates to speak out when they need.  Our hope is that this will mean that this will build the trust of players at Borbury so that they can feel comfortable talking about any personal issues that they may have.”

Since its set up almost two years ago, the football club has played its part in promoting positive wellbeing through both the physical aspect of sport and the friendships it has fostered along the way. 

“Our club is great to be a part of and I can confidently say that it has contributed to our members positive mental well-being.  From a personal standpoint, small things such as being in an environment surrounded by friends in a positive space has a had a great impact on my mental health. Even when we aren’t training, we are continuously chatting and making plans together,” continued Steven.

On behalf of the club, Steven encouraged that those facing challenges with their mental health 'reach out' and highlighted that it as issue that can be halved with the help of another.

“If you are feeling unhappy, consider talking to a friend, family or possibly a therapist. Don’t be afraid to talk as you never know, it might encourage others to come forward if they are also struggling,” he said.

“Try to stay active and take part in activities you enjoy - if football is something you enjoy, you’re welcome to get involved with Borbury F.C.”

To contribute to the club's fundraising goal, click on the link provided on Borbury Football Club's Facebook and Instagram pages.