Mental Health And Wellbeing in Sport and Physical Activity

Evidence shows that taking part in Sport and Physical Activity can have a positive impact on mental Wellbeing. Being Active can improve mood, decrease the chance of depression and anxiety, and lead to a better and more balanced lifestyle.

At Active Herefordshire and Worcestershire, we want to help people be involved in sport and those coaching, volunteering or a part of a club or sport in anyway understand the positive impacts it can make on your mental health and wellbeing. On this page you can find information and resources to help you or your club or organisation.

You can also find all of the resources from our recent Coaching Academy Event on Mental Health and Wellbeing.

Information

Physical Activity can help to maintain positive mental health and wellbeing. This doesn't mean you have to take part in a sport like, football or Hockey, this could be walking, yoga, chair-based exercise, gardening or dance. Mind has a range of suggestions for activities to suit everybody, if your getting started or looking for something new! Mind - What activity might work for me.

How does physical activity help?

Energy Boost
Better Sleep - taking part in physical activity can make you feel more tired at the end of the day.
Improved Mood - physical activity releases feel-good, hormones that give you more energy and make you feel better and more content.
Reduce Stress - it can reduce stress level and help you make better decisions when under pressure.
Manage Anxiety - being active can give your brain something to focus on an can be a positive coping strategy.
Increase self-esteem - being more active can make you feel better about yourself as you improve, this can also help you cope better with stress.

More information on how Physical Activity can help your mind can be found: