Over the past 10 years, there has been an increased focus on mental health within Football.
Multiple campaigns have been launched to help raise awareness, with Norwich City recently releasing a poignant and impactful short film on suicide prevention. The beautifully shot video viewed over 145 million times online, can be seen below. 1
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And while watching our teams week in, and week out may cause an occasional rise in our stress levels, the feeling of belonging within the Football community makes a huge difference to millions worldwide.
It’s not just watching Football that has a positive effect on our mental health either, playing the sport also has enormous benefits.
So let’s discuss the role of the beautiful game within the wellness space.
Mental health can affect every single one of us and its ever-growing spotlight has brought about some alarming figures.
Mental health struggles may have traditionally been associated with an older demographic, but recent surveys have suggested that there is an escalating issue within younger individuals.
The NHS reported that in 2023, nearly one million children were referred to mental health services in the UK. 2
Furthermore, 1 in 5 children aged 5 to 16 are thought to have a probable mental disorder, and 1 in 4 children are affected by poverty, preventing them from enrolling in activities outside of school and impacting their wellbeing. 3
Offering affordable opportunities for all children across the UK would be a significant step forward and apps like Family F.C. are designed to do just that.
Outside of the physical health benefits, playing Football can also be a very effective stress reliever and natural energy boost.
When you exercise, your body releases chemicals called endorphins which interact with your brain providing a wave of positivity and working as a deterrent for anxiety and depression. Regular exercise has also been proven to boost our self-esteem and confidence.4
Sometimes, we need a welcome distraction from stressful situations such as school, work or personal problems. The chance to escape and focus on something completely different for an hour or two helps clear the mind and calms us.
Humans are social creatures by nature and feelings of loneliness can put people at a greater risk of mental health problems. It is estimated that around 7% of people in Great Britain alone, experience chronic loneliness. 5
Studies have shown that regular social interactions can lead to reduced stress, depression and anxiety. At the same time, friendships provide us with a sense of purpose and belonging. 6
That feeling of belonging, as we alluded to earlier is something that Football has always been known for, whether watching the game or playing it.
Joining a team, for example, usually means training once a week alongside matchdays on a weekend. In that time spent together, bonds and close friendships are built. Those friendships lead to meaningful conversations where you can discuss anything that is playing on your mind.
Remember, a problem shared is a problem halved!
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Finding more enjoyment in life may sound like a simple fix for complex problems, and while it’s certainly not a complete solution, it is crucial. Having fun, and taking pleasure in activities, is as important as any other aspect of mental health.
Being part of a positive environment fosters a more optimistic outlook and builds emotional resilience which aids us in coping with difficult times better. 7
Playing Football, whether for a team or casually in the park with family or friends can be immensely enjoyable. Camaraderie, practising new skills, and a sense of achievement are just a few reasons Football is a fantastic activity for supporting mental health.
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Mental health is an ever-changing and deeply personal journey and it’s encouraging that it is being taken more seriously in today's society.
There are many ways to help maintain a positive mindset but if you are struggling, please remember to reach out to a family member or friend.
If you don’t feel comfortable discussing your concerns with someone close to you, numerous charities are available to offer support. They include:
Samaritans - 116 123 (24/7, 365 days a year)
SANEline - 0300 304 7000 (4:30pm - 10:30pm every day)
CALM - 0800 58 58 58 (5pm - Midnight every day)
SHOUT - If you prefer not speaking to someone, text SHOUT to 85258. They provide a 24/7 text support service.
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Works Cited
Bruce, Debra Fulghum. “Exercise and Depression: Endorphins, Reducing Stress, and More.” WebMD, 1 April 2022, https://www.webmd.com/depression/exercise-depression. Accessed 19 May 2024.
“Friendships: Enrich your life and improve your health.” Mayo Clinic, https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/friendships/art-20044860. Accessed 20 May 2024.
Gilmour, R., and S. Duck. “Facts and Statistics.” Campaign to End Loneliness, https://www.campaigntoendloneliness.org/facts-and-statistics/. Accessed 20 May 2024.
Hannant, David. “Huge impact of Norwich City FC mental health video revealed.” Norwich Evening News, 24 March 2024, https://www.eveningnews24.co.uk/news/24200792.huge-impact-norwich-city-fc-mental-health-video-revealed/. Accessed 18 May 2024.
Lyubomirsky, Sonja. “Create Joy and Satisfaction.” Mental Health America, https://www.mhanational.org/create-joy-and-satisfaction. Accessed 20 May 2024.
“Mental Health of Children and Young People in England, 2023 - wave 4 follow up to the 2017 survey - NHS England Digital.” NHS Digital, 21 November 2023, https://digital.nhs.uk/data-and-information/publications/statistical/mental-health-of-children-and-young-people-in-england/2023-wave-4-follow-up. Accessed 19 May 2024.
“Over a quarter of a million children still waiting for mental health support.” Children's Commissioner, https://www.childrenscommissioner.gov.uk/blog/over-a-quarter-of-a-million-children-still-waiting-for-mental-health-support/. Accessed 18 May 2024.
