November is a month of reflection and preparation. As the year draws closer to its end, it’s a time to look after both body and mind, creating balance before the busy festive season begins
This month, we’re shining a light on Movember, raising awareness for men’s health and encouraging conversations that matter Alongside this, our Stress Less Challenge offers daily practical steps to help you manage pressure and create calm.
We also acknowledge the journey of bereavement, loss, and grief - reminding us that healing comes with compassion, connection, and time At the same time, opportunities like becoming a virtual volunteer show how giving back, even from home, can provide purpose and fulfilment.
For those planning trips, our feature on Travel Health & Vaccines will share ways to stay safe on the go And for comfort at home, our warming recipe for Tuscan Portobello Stew is perfect for the colder nights
Small actions every day, whether it’s cooking a meal, helping someone, or taking a mindful moment - can build resilience and keep us grounded through change.
- Albert Einstein
Raising Awareness for Men's Health One Moustache at a Time
Movember, an annual event held every November, is more than just an excuse to grow quirky facial hair It’s a global movement dedicated to raising awareness and funds for men's health issues, particularly focusing on mental health, suicide prevention, prostate cancer, and testicular cancer.
The Idea is Simple!
Grow a moustache during the month of November to initiate conversations about men's health and to encourage men to act for their wellbeing
Since its beginning in 2003, Movember has grown into a worldwide phenomenon, mobilising millions of people and generating significant impact for men’s health initiatives.
The Origins of Movember Men’s Health Issues
Movember was founded in 2003 by a group of friends in Melbourne, Australia. Inspired by the "Mo-vember" trend of growing moustaches during the month of November, they decided to use the concept to raise funds for prostate cancer research From those humble beginnings, the movement has grown into the global Movember Foundation, a leading charity committed to changing the face of men's health Today, the foundation operates in over 20 countries, and millions of men (and women) participate by growing moustaches or supporting the cause in various ways.
Movember focuses on addressing four key areas of men’s health: prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention. These issues are often overlooked or surrounded by stigma, and Movember aims to raise awareness, encourage early detection, and support treatment and prevention initiatives. Here's an overview of each health issue:
Testicular cancer Prostate Cancer
The second most common cancer in men worldwide, affects millions annually, emphasizing the importance of early detection through regular screenings like PSA tests, as encouraged by Movember."
Prostate cancer Know your risk Take actionMovember
A highly treatable cancer affecting young men, emphasizes the importance of regular self-examinations as encouraged by Movember, to ensure early detection and increase survival rates.
Know Thy Nuts | All you need to know about testicular cancer and checking your testiclesMovember
Mental Health Suicide Prevention
Movember addresses the critical issue of men's mental health, encouraging open conversations and seeking help, to break down the stigma and support those facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or more severe conditions
Movember - Men's Health - Mental Health & Suicide Prevention
How to Get Involved
Movember addresses the pressing issue of men's suicide rates, promoting mental resilience, early intervention, and open conversations to break down the stigma and encourage men to seek help, ultimately saving lives
Movember - Men's Health - Suicide PreventionReducing The Risk of Suicide
Getting involved in Movember is simple and fun Participants, known as “Mo Bros,” start the month of November clean-shaven and spend the next 30 days growing and grooming their moustaches.
In addition to growing a moustache, participants can also take part in the “Move for Movember” challenge, which encourages people to get active and raise funds through physical activity.
Fundraising Resources
How to fundraise for Movember | Ultimate resource page for fundraising ideas - Movember
Movember Challenges
Movember - Get Involved - Industry Challenges
Bereavement, Loss, and Grief:
Bereavement, loss, and grief are some of the most profound and challenging experiences we encounter in our life. When we lose someone or something we hold dear, it can feel as though our world has shifted in ways we cannot fully understand. Each person’s journey through grief is unique, and while the path may be difficult, it is also a process that allows us to heal and grow.
Grief is not a linear journey; it comes in waves, sometimes catching us off guard with overwhelming emotions. There is no “right” way to grieve, and it is important to be gentle with ourselves during this time Feelings of sadness, anger, confusion, and even numbness are all natural responses to loss. It is normal to feel disoriented as we adjust to life without the presence of someone or something that once brought us comfort and joy.
Bereavement is the state of having lost someone, and with it comes the understanding that life will never be quite the same. While the pain of loss can feel unbearable at times, it is important to remember that healing doesn’t mean forgetting. It means finding a way to carry the memory of what was lost while continuing to move forward in life.
Support is essential during this time. Whether it comes from family, friends, or professional counselling, sharing our feelings and seeking comfort from others can ease the burden of grief. It’s okay to lean on those who care about us and take things one day at a time
Ultimately, grief teaches us about love, its depth, its beauty, and how it shapes who we are. While loss is painful, the memories and connections we hold in our hearts remain, offering solace as we find our way through the darkness into the light again
Reference
Home - Cruse Bereavement Support What does grief feel like? - Mind The Process of Coping with Grief and Loss | Psychology Today Blue Cross Pet Loss Support | Pet Loss
Stress Less November
Challenge Breakdown
Week 1: Building Awareness of Stress
Day 1: List your main stress sources.
Day 2: Breathe deeply for 5 minutes
Day 3: Walk or sit in nature 10 minutes
Day 4: Start a daily stress journal.
Day 5: Try progressive muscle relaxation.
Day 6: Do a relaxing 30-minute activity
Day 7: Reflect on stress patterns and responses.
Week 4: Long-Term Stress Management
Day 22: Plan response to stress trigger
Day 23: Write 3 things you're grateful for.
Day 24: Connect with someone no distractions
Day 25: Decline unnecessary commitments today.
Day 26: Journal your challenge learnings
Day 27: Do a relaxing hobby
Day 28: Reflect on stress strategy changes.
Final Days: Reflect and Plan for the Future
Day 29: Review your stress journal.
Day 30: Set long-term stress goals.
Resources
Articles
NHS - Get help with stress
Get help with stress - NHS (www nhs uk)
NHS-Work Related Stress
Work-related stress - NHS (www nhs uk)
Managing Stress and Building Resilience
Managing stress and building resilience - tips - Mind
App
Stresscoach: Reduce Anxiety
Stresscoach: Reduce Anxiety - Apps on Google Play
Stresscoach: Reduce Anxiety
Stresscoach - Anxiety Helper on the App Store (apple com)
Podcast
The Calmer You Podcast
Anxiety Podcast - Calmer you (calmer-you com)
Week
2: Managing Stress with Healthy Habits
Day 8: Sleep early 30 minutes earlier tonight.
Day 9: Reduce caffeine and sugar today.
Day 10: Schedule joyful “me time.”
Day 11: Drink plenty of water today.
Day 12: Try 10-minute guided meditation
Day 13: Unplug screens 1 hour before bed
Day 14: Reflect on helpful healthy habits
Week 3: Building Resilience Against Stress
Day 15: Say or write 3 affirmations.
Day 16: Declutter your space today.
Day 17: Say “no” to one task.
Day 18: Stretch for 15 minutes.
Day 19: Do short yoga or exercise.
Day 20: Check in with your feelings.
Day 21: Reflect on your resilience progress.
Bonus Challenge:
Keep practicing stress management by trying one new relaxation technique each week. Whether it’s meditation, exercise, or creative activities, make stress relief a priority as you head into the holidays and the new year
Travel Health & Vaccines Stay Safe on the Go
Travel brings opportunity but also health risks that aren’t part of daily life at home. Whether it’s a short business trip or a longer overseas assignment, a few checks before you go can prevent illness and disruption later.
Keep Routine Vaccinations up to Date
Many adults assume they’re covered for life, but protection can fade, and some never completed the full course. The NHS recommends all adults are up to date with MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), diphtheria, tetanus, and polio.
Uptake has dropped in recent years. According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), only 88.9% of children in England received their first MMR dose by age two in 2023–24, below the 95% target That decline has fuelled a rise in measles cases - 2,911 in 2024, the highest since 2012
If you’re unsure of your own record, check with your GP or occupational health team before you travel.
Understand Destination - Specific Vaccines
Different destinations carry different health risks The NHS Fit for Travel and Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) websites list current vaccine recommendations by country.
Hepatitis A – for areas where food or water hygiene is poor
Typhoid – where sanitation is limited.
Yellow Fever – required for travel to parts of Africa and South America
Rabies – for work or travel in rural regions or where animal contact is likely.
Tetanus booster – if it’s been more than ten years since your last jab.
Vaccines can take several weeks to become effective, so book six to eight weeks before travel. Some courses need multiple doses to complete protection.
Employer Responsibilities
Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, employers must assess risks linked to overseas work
That includes supporting employees with travel health advice, vaccination access, and emergency arrangements abroad.
A good travel health risk assessment should cover local disease risks, access to medical care, climate, insurance, and any personal medical considerations.
Simple Precautions While Abroad
Drink bottled or boiled water and avoid ice in high-risk areas.
Use mosquito repellent and bed nets where malaria is present.
Carry sanitiser and wash hands regularly.
Keep digital and paper copies of vaccination certificates and medication details.
Become a Virtual Volunteer
Becoming a virtual volunteer is a flexible and impactful way to contribute to causes you care about from the comfort of your home. Many organisations look for remote help in various areas, such as mentoring students, providing administrative support, or creating content for social media.
This opportunity allows you to use your skills and expertise to make a difference while accommodating your schedule. Virtual volunteering not only broadens your horizons by connecting you with diverse communities but also helps you develop new skills and enhance your resume. Embrace the power of technology to create positive change and support organisations that align with your passions.
Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as potatoes or green beans.
This stew can be made ahead of time and tastes even better the next day as the Flavors develop Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
NEW: Weight Management Clinic
TAC Healthcare’s Weight Management Support Programme has been developed in direct response to the forthcoming OEUK Industry Safety Weight Limit for Offshore Installations Policy and Issue 8 of the OEUK Medical Fitness for Offshore Work Guidelines
These new guidelines will introduce a maximum clothed weight limit of 124 kg for offshore travel, with additional restrictions for individuals weighing 115 kg or more.
A Personalised Approach to Weight Management
Nurse-led lifestyle, dietary and exercise coaching, with InBody assessment
Targeted dietetic advice from experienced professionals
Personalised exercise and mobility programmes from our expert physiotherapists, also including InBody assessments
Plan Ahead - Let’s Talk!
Contact your account manager for more information today.
Clinical access to prescribed treatments such as Wegovy and Mounjaro, plus advanced medical support
