A brave Donegal student is using the experience of his past mental health struggles to help promote the ‘Movember’ campaign.
Joseph Sweeney (22), President of ATU Donegal Students’ Union and a recent Law graduate, is also serving as the university’s Movember Ambassador.
“I want to help normalise conversations around men’s mental health and encourage those who have had experiences similar to me to speak up without fear of being ignored,” he said.
The annual month-long Movember campaign got underway on Saturday, November 1st, and the charity is aiming to raise over €2 million to fund vital men’s health initiatives. The charity aims to change the face of men’s health and highlight that it is not just a male issue but a societal one. Joseph is urging supporters either to grow a moustache, move 60km in the month, host an event or ‘mo’ your own way.
To support Joseph’s Movember challenge or make a donation, visit : https://movember.com/m/15377641?mc=1
The Newtowncunningham man said he struggled during the transition from secondary to third level education. However, thanks to the many supports provided by ATU, he is back on track and is now determined to use his experience to help others.
“An opportunity arose, given my role here as SU President and with my own personal experience, to become a Movember Ambassador,” he said.
“I struggled with mental health issues, particularly when transitioning from second level education to college. I didn’t realise how difficult it was until I came out of it.”
He said he tried a few different sports and counselling to help improve his mental health.
“In the end, it was a mix of all of them, as well as the great supports here at ATU and the great atmosphere.”
A recent report on men’s mental health found that around 25 per cent of men surveyed found there was limited support.
Movember, Joseph added, hopes to change that.
“We lack supports generally and it is hard for people,” he explains.
“It’s clear that support for men, and young men, isn’t there. However, it is improving thanks to these (Movember) types of campaigns. But I still see a stigma around men’s mental health issues, and the campaign is tackling that. It allows more people to come forward and say ‘I’m struggling and need help’, which is great. I went through a very difficult period, and now I help where I can to help other people come forward.”
Joseph advises anyone who may be struggling to reach out for whatever local supports are available.
“Don’t be afraid to talk about it and, remember, many other people are going through something similar. You’re not on your own and people are there to support you, and don’t be afraid to reach out to friends and family, too”.
In terms of Movember challenges, Joseph is running 60k this month for the 60 men we lose globally to suicide every hour. He is also growing a moustache and will be hosting a variety of Movember events and fundraisers in ATU Donegal.
To support Joseph’s Movember challenge or make a donation, visit : https://movember.com/m/15377641?mc=1
Connecting for Life
Donegal student turns past struggles into campaign for men’s mental health was last modified: November 13th, 2025 by Staff Writer
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