Sporting Minds project is an innovative program by Anxious Minds that aims to improve the mental health and well-being of individuals through sport and physical activity. It combines the benefits of exercise with mental health support to aid recovery, combat social isolation, and empower people to lead healthier, more positive lives.
About Sporting Minds
Sporting Minds has a simple yet powerful mission:
“To enhance the mental health and well-being of individuals through sport and physical activity.”
We are committed to making mental health support accessible to everyone by leveraging the power of sports and exercise to create a positive impact on mental health, promote physical health, and build social connections.
Helping You Get Active
As part of our Recovery program, we offer outdoor-based therapies and sporting activies. It is well known that exercise and building support networks encourage and promote positive mental health. Likewise, outdoor engagement and sport can provide a form of alternative mental health support and act as a “soft” engagement mechanism in our broader services for those a little nervous about engaging in counselling, etc.
Hiking, Kayaking, Mountain Biking, Woodland School, Rock Climbing
This project is available to anyone accessing any of our mental health projects as part of the recovery program
Key Features of the Sporting Minds Project
- Wide Range of Physical Activities:
Sporting Minds offers a diverse range of physical activities, including sports like football, rugby, walking, dance, gardening, and exercise sessions. These activities are designed to suit varying interests and abilities, ensuring that everyone can find a sport or activity that they enjoy and that benefits their mental health.
We believe there is a physical activity for everyone, and our aim is to make sure every person has the opportunity to improve their mental health through activities that they find engaging and enjoyable.
- Co-Designed with Service Users and Professionals:
Sporting Minds’ programs are co-designed by individuals with lived experience of mental health challenges and healthcare professionals. This approach ensures that the activities are not only effective but also tailored to the specific needs and preferences of participants, whether they are in community settings or inpatient care.
- Inclusive and Accessible for All:
The program is open to anyone experiencing mental health challenges, regardless of their fitness level or prior experience with sports. We specifically focus on creating an inclusive and welcoming environment where individuals feel comfortable and supported as they engage in physical activities.
- Educational Component:
Beyond just providing physical activity sessions, Sporting Minds also focuses on educating participants and the wider community about mental health and the benefits of staying active. We use sports as a platform to bring people together, foster open conversations about mental health, and challenge misconceptions and stigma.
- Measurable Impact:
We have witnessed the transformative impact that physical activity can have on mental health. Each year, Sporting Minds supports the recovery of hundreds of individuals, many of whom may have never considered themselves “sporty.” By providing these opportunities, we empower people to take control of their mental health and move their lives forward positively.
The Impact of Sporting Minds
Through Sporting Minds, Anxious Minds has been able to significantly improve the lives of people experiencing mental health problems by:
Aiding Recovery: Physical activity helps in managing symptoms of mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD, and contributes to overall recovery.
Promoting Mental Well-being: Regular engagement in physical activity has been proven to boost mood, improve self-esteem, and reduce stress.
Improving Physical Health: Many participants see improvements in their physical fitness, which also enhances their mental health.
Combating Social Isolation: Group activities and sports create a sense of community and belonging, helping individuals connect with others and reduce feelings of loneliness.
Empowering Participants: By providing a supportive environment, Sporting Minds empowers individuals to push their limits, discover new strengths, and build resilience.
Sporting Minds continues to be a beacon of hope for those struggling with mental health challenges, providing them with opportunities to improve their well-being through the power of sports and physical activity.
Some Feedback:
Evaluation question: Have you recently been losing confidence in yourself?
Response: “Through out the day my confidence has grown in talking to new people.” LH 15th December 2021
Evaluation question: I feel that what happens to me is out of my control.
Response: “I have more confidence in coming out to activities to meet new people. The afternoon has been very therapeutic for me. Thank you. SB 15th December 2021
Response: I’ve really enjoyed being here today, feel less stressed than when I came! Thank you! WBD HB 11th November 2021
