Did you know that one in four British adults experience a mental health problem every year?
Wednesday 10 October is World Mental Health Day a day designed to bring together people working on mental health issues to talk about their work, and what more needs to be done to make high-quality mental health care a reality for people worldwide.
It is, of course, well known that physical activity and sport can have a positive impact on our well-being, self esteem, stress levels and happiness but what is being doing across London to support World Mental Health Day?
Good Gym
Good Gym was set up back in 2012 and helps people get fit with regular exercise whilst simultaneously doing good deeds like helping local communities.
Why does running help with mental health?
If you’re exercising and running outside, green spaces are known to provide a boost to our mental state. Running while watching may help lift you even when you’re at your lowest.
– Laura Williams, Good Gym trainer for Tower Hamlets
This week, to celebrate World Mental Health Day, all Good Gym sessions will be in partnership with the England Athletics and mental health charity Mind’s #RunAndTalk campaign.
All three companies have a firm belief in the power of running to improve both mental and physical health and will be demonstrating that throughout the week.
Supported by @MindCharity we want to get people talking about mental health, sharing their experiences and removing stigma. #RunAndTalk #MentaHealth #MentalHealthAwareness #MentalHealthMatters #RunTogether #EnglandAthletics pic.twitter.com/5stVsnIxW2
— England Athletics (@EnglandAthletic) October 7, 2018
Youth mental health first aid in Bromley
Physical first aid is a requirement but there is no similar mental health training given to the majority of the workforce involved in sport and physical activity.
Protecting the mental health of young people especially is of growing importance, and youth workers and sport coaches can play a vital role in spotting signs and symptoms without having to be experts.
This November, Pro-Active Bromley are funding a youth mental health first aid course aimed at volunteers, youth workers and project managers who will learn to:
- Challenge the stigma surrounding mental health
- Define mental health and common illnesses
- Spot the early signs of mental health problems in young people
- Give help, support and guidance to any young person who needs it
The training will take place on 13 November, 17:30 – 20:30, located at the Pavillion Leisure Centre, Bromley.
Do you know someone who deserves to be recognised for their achievements in promoting mental health and well-being?
Nominate them for a London Sport Award which will be held at Twickenham Stadium on 14 March, 2019. The awards will be celebrating all the incredible achievements of those helping to make London the most physically active city in the world.
Take a look at the work being done by last year’s winner, Palace for Life:
