The Covid-19 pandemic, particularly the restrictions imposed in many countries that have curtailed freedoms and increased stress and isolation, has created an environment that will likely persist for some time in which all of us need to consider and take daily steps to protect our physical and mental wellbeing. Those of us without sufficient support or resources to take those steps face a challenge that for many may seem insurmountable.

I am very fortunate to have the support of my family, to live in an environment in which I can take care of my family's and my physical and mental needs, and to work for a great company that values health and safety (both physical and mental) above all else. I appreciate that a great many people around the world do not enjoy such support or resources.

Globally, the rate of suicide is alarmingly high, particularly in men. Too many men are ‘toughing it out’, keeping their feelings to themselves and struggling in silence. I fear that the Covid-19 pandemic will make this situation much worse.

This year, I will participate in Movember for the first time (Movember is aiming to reduce the rate of male suicide by 25% by 2030). I have no good excuse for not participating previously but the extreme conditions arising from the pandemic, and some of the challenges I have faced personally in the last year, have compelled me into action in support of the Movember cause. I will be scaling-back my use of a razor and growing a 'mo' (despite protestations from my daughter). A year after badly injuring my lower back twice, devastating my ability to pursue my passions of BJJ, Muay Thai and weight-lifting, with persisting pain and restricted movement and the associated physical and mental health challenges, I will also be walking, cycling, swimming (and perhaps running slowly if my back will take it) to cover at least 60km during November.

In my life, there has never been a more pressing need for me to focus on helping others to improve their mental health. If I can help even a little by sporting an embarrassing mo and pushing myself a little physically, that’s a very small price to pay.