Welcome to the Why Sports Mental Health  webinar

As efforts increase to slow down the spread of COVID-19, leisure and cultural facilities close, open and close again throughout Europe and the wider world. Many people can no longer follow their usual routines. The Why Sports Mental Health webinar will explore the impact that the current restrictions are having on the nations mental health and will share advice and tools to enable us to understand, manage and open up about our feelings. 

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Although the stigma of mental health is shifting, our mental health remains an issue for everyone. We all have times when we feel down, stressed, scared or frightened. With time, for most of us, these feelings will pass, but sometimes those feelings can develop into a more serious problem. Your mental health does not always follow the playbook. As you enter certain or different stages of your life your mental health can evolve and cause us to feel isolated, anxious, depressed, stressed or can lead to severe and enduring mental health problems conditions such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia.    

The stigma associated with mental health problems means that many people don't feel they can share their feelings. This means people sometimes feel uncomfortable speaking about their experiences but it is healthy to know and to share how you are feeling. 

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"There's plenty of evidence that taking part in physical activity can have a profound and positive impact on mental wellbeing. Being physically active can improve mood, decrease the chance of depression and anxiety and lead to a better and more balanced lifestyle" - Sport England

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Physical activity is not only great for your body but it's great for your mind too. Research has shown that physical activity activates and releases chemicals in the brain that make you feel good, boost your self-esteem, enhance concentration, improve our body image and helps our sleep patterns. All of this for free! 

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There are many ways that we can be active and inturn improve our mental health. Taking part in a regular activity can increase our ability to meet old and new friends/colleagues and can be a well-earned break away from the rigours of day to day life. 

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This must-attend webinar will illustrate the benefits of physical activity to our body and mind,  the varied countrywide opportunities and support networks and how as a nation we can furthermore understand and embrace our mental health.

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