Taconic and Pittsfield Students Unite for Men’s Mental Health at Movember Walk-a-Thon
Pittsfield High School Students Walk for Men’s Health
Approximately 200 students from Taconic and Pittsfield High Schools participated in the third annual “Move for Movember” walk-a-thon in downtown Pittsfield on Friday. This event aimed to raise awareness and funds for men’s mental health, addressing the alarming statistic that three out of four suicides in the United States are by men and boys.
The walk-a-thon supported the Aaron T. Coty Memorial Scholarship in memory of a student who died by suicide in 2015. Participants paid a $5 registration fee and were encouraged to raise an additional $20.
Matt Capeless, a community ambassador for Movember and a teacher at Taconic High School, expressed his emotions about Coty’s death. He recalled that, at the time, he and his friends felt helpless and wished they could have done more to support him.
Coty’s mother, Judy, emphasized how unaware they were of his struggles, noting his bright personality and many friends. His father, Peter, mentioned that last year, they awarded two $750 scholarships and hoped to expand their reach to other high schools.
Capeless introduced the Movember initiative to the community in 2020. Movember encourages participants to walk or run 60 miles to represent the 60 men who die by suicide worldwide every hour. Growing facial hair during November also promotes men’s health.
Capeless highlighted the importance of discussing mental health and creating awareness. He reflected on Coty’s vibrant character, stating, “He masked pain behind that smile that could light up a room.”
Pittsfield High School art teacher Lisa Ostellino shared her personal connection to the cause. She emphasized the need for proactive discussions about mental health, inspired by her son’s journey through anxiety and depression.
Fellow art teacher Colleen Quinn recalled seeing Coty shortly before his death and encouraged those struggling to seek help: “You’re not alone.”
Cam Harrington, a scholarship recipient, stressed that while mental health awareness is growing, men’s mental health often goes unaddressed. He cited societal pressures and stereotypes that discourage men from expressing vulnerability.
Harrington shared troubling statistics: 77% of men experience mental health symptoms, yet only 31% receive a diagnosis. In 2021, 70% of suicide victims were men, with rates four times higher than for women.
Another speaker, Cam LaFerriere, recounted his own struggles and the importance of reaching out for help. He urged attendees to prioritize mental health discussions and support one another.
During the event, members of Taconic’s Movember Club also shared their thoughts and experiences regarding mental health.
For anyone in crisis, support is available through the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or the Crisis Text Line by texting HELLO to 741741. The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline can be reached by calling 988.