Movember. It starts with a simple act: growing a moustache. While it may seem like just a bit of fun with facial hair, Movember sparks a global movement, igniting conversations and raising crucial funds for men’s health issues like prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health. This November, a wave of awareness swept through SEGi College Subang Jaya, bringing with it a quiet acknowledgement of the importance of men’s mental well-being.
We sat down with four students, each with their own stories and perspectives, and asked them a simple yet profound question: “What advice would you give your younger self on mental health?” Their responses were candid, insightful, and surprisingly moving.
Hwang Qi Yuan, with a calm demeanor that reflected his background as a Bachelor (Hons) Degree in Psychology student, advised:
“Stay away from toxic relationships and find healthy ways to release stress. Don’t overthink things, and focus on doing your part, as many things are beyond your control. Eat a balanced diet to support better mental health. Lastly, talk to parents, friends, or teachers whenever you are stressed or anxious. Remember, reaching out is a sign of strength, and it’s important to seek support when you need it.”
Nesshvyn a/l Balasubramaniam, with the focused determination of a Bachelors in Mechanical Engineering student, offered this practical advice:
“If I could advise my younger self on mental health, I’d say: prioritise self-care because mental health is as important as physical health. Learn positive coping methods like journaling or exercise to handle stress. Seek help when needed; talking to someone can ease the burden. Set boundaries without guilt; it’s okay to protect your time. Be kind to yourself; mistakes are part of growth. And surround yourself with people who uplift you; avoid relationships that drain your peace.”
Nilesh Kumar, with the insightful perspective of a Diploma in Psychology student, shared this heartfelt advice:
“My advice to my younger self? Don’t be afraid to talk about your feelings with people you trust. It’s okay to open up and share what’s going on inside. And remember to take time to really understand your emotions, to process them without judgement. It’s all part of taking care of your mental health.”
Chow Man Yin, with the thoughtful composure of a Bachelors degree in Psychology student, offered this insightful reflection:
“Learning to recognise and accept all my feelings, not burying them, is crucial. Even the difficult ones are valid, and trying to suppress them only makes them louder. It’s okay to feel down or anxious, but it’s equally important to reach out for help when needed. Building a balanced routine with regular sleep and exercise can also help keep my mental health steady, even during tough times.”
At SEGi College Subang Jaya, Movember has become a catalyst for meaningful conversations and a powerful reminder that mental health matters. These young men, with their candid reflections and hard-earned wisdom, have illuminated the path towards a more open and supportive campus culture. As their stories resonate beyond the classroom walls, let’s embrace the hope that together, we can break down stigmas and build a community where everyone feels empowered to prioritise their mental well-being.
This initiative by SEGi aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically:
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 4: Quality Education
- SDG 5: Gender Equality
