This is Barrett Penner's fourth year taking part in Movember. (Submitted Photo/Barrett Penner)

By Julia Lovett-Squires

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Barrett Penner has a message for men who suffer in silence: “It’s okay not to be okay.”

This marks the fourth year that he’s taking part in the challenge to raise money and awareness for men’s health, though he admits his ‘stash isn’t what you’d call full.

“A lot of my friends and family think my moustache is pretty disgusting, which is pretty humorous, which they enjoy seeing on a weekly basis.”

Penner said growing an “ugly moustache” was an easy way to support the cause that has now expanded over its 20-year history to include mental health and suicide awareness along with testicular and prostate cancer awareness. He has personally set a goal of $2,500 but is also part of the Bridges Bro Stashes, which began as a team-building exercise at Bridges GMC.

“There’s a stigma around mental health right now and that’s kind of where I go with it,” he said.

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“Especially in the last however many years, especially in North Battleford with young kids and males and suicides it’s something that I’ve taken to heart.”

He explained the year started off strong but much of it depends on the year and how much the participants put into it.

“This year we are – together as a team – we’ve raised about $750,” he said, noting he’s getting closer to reaching $500 and his fundraising strategy has been to send the donation link to his inner circle. Since 2020, he has personally raised nearly $1,700.

“At the end of the day, I feel like every little bit counts and if that can help somebody get the help that they need, I feel like I’ve done my part.”

According to Michele Winterholt, executive director for the Canadian Mental Health Association (CHMA)– Battlefords Branch, mental health is a challenge not just locally and extends to all social groups, however, there is still a stigma around men’s mental health.

“I think we’ve seen improvements in this area and more acceptance of understanding that having feelings is felt by all races and mankind and genders,” she said.

Still, there are certain areas in society where the traditional mindset exists but Winterholt said with more education and more open communication will go a long way to removing the stigmas. She said in the Battlefords there are several other agencies that are doing men-specific mental health groups.

“That’s great to see,” she said referring to the community coming together.

According to Statistics Canada, men consistently die by suicide more than women and suicide was the leading cause of death in 2021 for 144 men when compared to 67 women in the province.

It’s stats like that that is the reason behind Penner’s dedication.

“I think sometimes people just need to listen more…and being kind and just loving people can go a long way,” he said.

“I do believe a lot of people have their own demons.”

Penner himself isn’t ashamed to admit he speaks to someone from time to time and believes just talking can be helpful.

“Being a role model for younger men I don’t think is a band thing,” he said, noting he came to the area when he was younger to play hockey and was always told to “Suck it up.”

Meanwhile, Winterholt said the important thing to continue to do in the northern communities is to make connections with people and find the gaps and what services might be needed.

“I think it’s just continuing the advocacy,” she said.

“Movember is a really great initiative that brings attention to men’s mental health that is needed…and hopefully helps more people.”

Penner said that it took growing up a little before he understood the true meaning of the cause.

“Does it help my mental state out? I’m not sure but is it a little fun – yes and I think having fun does help out people’s mental health.”

People can donate to Penner’s cause online.