England Touch and Mental Health Awareness Week

As we navigate through this Mental Health Awareness Week, England Touch would like to emphasise the importance of mental health within our community. Too often in the hustle and bustle of our lives, mental health takes a backseat. We'd like to change that narrative.

Our community is built on teamwork and camaraderie, with the bonds formed on the pitch extending far beyond the sidelines. Let's harness this strength to support each other in all aspects of our lives, including our mental wellbeing.

There is a wealth of evidence that certain activities can bolster mental health. Here are just a few for your consideration:

Regular Exercise: We’re obviously no strangers to the physical benefits of playing touch rugby; the running, the agility drills, and the warm-ups all contribute to our physical fitness. However, exercise is also a potent tool for mental wellbeing. The NHS notes that regular exercise can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety and promote better sleep. So, while we’re keeping fit on the pitch, we’re also benefiting our minds.
Spending Time in Nature: Immersing ourselves in nature, whether it's a park, a garden, or a forest, has numerous mental health benefits. The Mental Health Foundation states that exposure to green spaces can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance psychological well being. So, take a walk, have a picnic, or simply sit and absorb the beauty of nature around you.
Mindfulness and Meditation: Though they might seem distant from the fast-paced action of touch rugby, mindfulness and meditation can significantly benefit mental wellbeing. Mindfulness involves focusing on the present moment, and meditation helps calm the mind. Numerous scientific studies have found that these practices can reduce stress, improve focus, and increase emotional wellbeing.
Social Connection: Just as touch rugby thrives on teamwork, maintaining strong social connections off the field is critical. Nurturing relationships with family, friends, and teammates can greatly enhance mental wellbeing. Social interaction can improve our mood, reduce feelings of depression, and increase feelings of self-worth.
Healthy Eating: Nutrition is also a key player in mental health. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains can manage mood and energy levels. The Mental Health Foundation points out that deficiencies in certain nutrients, like B vitamins and iron, can impact our mood.
Seek Help When Needed: Lastly, and most importantly, please talk to someone you trust and/or seek professional help if you feel overwhelmed. It's okay to ask for help, and it's okay to not be okay. Sharing what you're experiencing can help you see that you're not alone and mental health professionals, such as therapists and counsellors, are well-equipped to provide you with positive guidance and support.

As we mark Mental Health Awareness Week, let's use this opportunity to check in on ourselves and each other.

Remember, mental health is not a destination, it's a journey, and a journey that we're on together. Let's continue to build a community that supports, encourages, and lifts each other up, both on and off the field.

Also remember: it's okay to not be okay. Reach out, speak up, and let's tackle mental health together.

The ETA would like to thank Jo Hutton, Safeguarding Lead and Soul Phoenix, Development Officer and member of the EDI working group for working on this area.