The Global Action on Men's Health (GAMH) report, 'Out of Focus: The representation of men in regional and global sexual and reproductive health policy', was published on the 4th of September 2024 (World Sexual Health Day).  This shows that men’s sexual and reproductive health is, in many respects, poor.  For example, men are more likely than women to acquire sexually transmitted infections such as syphilis and gonorrhoea or to be infected by HIV, sperm counts are falling globally, and male sexual dysfunctions - such as erectile dysfunction - are becoming more prevalent.  Men are also often reluctant users of services; partly because of gender norms that inhibit help-seeking, but also because services are not geared towards their needs.  You can download a copy of the report at: https://tinyurl.com/y2brar69

AWARE NI is offering a free mental health focused parent and baby workshop for dads.  This will take place on International Men's Day (Tuesday 19th November 2024), via Zoom, from 7.00pm - 9.00pm.  To find out more, or book a place, visit: https://aware-ni.org/MMPB

HUGG invites you to register for a place on their free information event for anyone who has been bereaved by suicide, or who is supporting someone bereaved by suicide.  This will take place online (via Zoom) on Wednesday 6th November 2024 at 7.30pm.  Find out more and book a place at: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/finding-hope-and-healing-after-suicide-tickets-1037729375497

On the 26th of September 2024, the Institute of Public Health hosted an event at Stormont in Belfast to explore the potential for Minimum Unit Pricing (MUP) in Northern Ireland.  This event highlighted the levels of alcohol harm locally, and demonstrated how MUP could be a critical tool in saving lives and reducing harm.  The discussions offered valuable perspectives on the intersection of public health policy, research, and real-world application.  You can see a recording of proceedings at: https://youtu.be/TXfPWhQxtg8

The Union of Students in Ireland (USI) is hoping to convene a student mental health conference on the 12th of November 2024 in Dublin.  This one day event will provide an opportunity to learn from those who are working innovatively in the student mental health space and to network with one another, as well as to hear from those doing research in this area.  They are trying to ascertain the level of interest in such an event, in order to plan accordingly.  You can register your interest at: https://tinyurl.com/4jxnp53r

In July 2024, Movember launched a report on men's health in the UK titled 'The Real Face of Men's Health'.  The aim of this report was to elevate the profile of men’s health with policymakers, so that it is considered proportionally to the burden of disease experienced by men, and to build political will for greater policy action and resourcing for men's health.  You can download the report at: https://tinyurl.com/354nsdzm

Growing up can be tough, and being LGBTQ+ can bring even more challenges.  Taking the brave step of opening up to someone about your worries and fears, no matter how big or small, is worth it.  If you’re struggling, the most important thing that you can do is to reach out for help and support - feelings are always better out than in.  Start by visiting: https://www.belongto.org/support-for-me/better-out-than-in

Treoir provides a free, confidential, specialist information service for parents in the Republic of Ireland who are not married to each other (whether living together or apart), their extended families and those working with them.  Information is available on legal, social welfare and parenting issues.  They are seeking help to inform their new Strategic Plan, by participating in a short survey.  See more at: https://tinyurl.com/mre9ezmj