High profile figures will visit university to explore links between exercise and mental health
High profile figures from the world of sport and mental health will visit Edge Hill University this week to celebrate University Mental Health Day 2017.
Halifax rugby player Luke Amber, who founded #Andysmanclub following the death of his brother-in-law by suicide, will join State of Mind Sport charity and others for a special panel discussion this Thursday (2 March).
Embracing the theme of ‘Active Mental Health’ the University will host the panel and a number of events exploring the relationship between physical and mental wellbeing and how exercise/sport can help with issues such as depression and anxiety.
Third year student Tom O’Brien who is running a sports activity on the day said: “I used to be a former national hurdler and sport gave me something to focus on.
“Whether things were going well or if I’d had a bad day, I found that being active helped take my mind off things and had a positive impact on other parts of my life. Being active made me feel better and more optimistic about day-to-day problems.”
He added: “More recently through volunteering with the University’s Tackling the Blues programme, I’ve seen how sport can be used as a hook to get young people talking about their feelings and can help them deal with anxiety and low self-esteem.”
Representatives from Everton Football Club, Lancashire Sport, The Children’s Society, Age UK and others will also take part in the day offering advice and future employment opportunities to students.
Andy Smith, Professor of Sport and Physical Activity at Edge Hill University, said: “Mental health issues affect all members of society but a recent national survey showed one in four students reported having mental health problems. This could be anything from depression and anxiety to diagnosed conditions.
“We know exercise not only improves a person’s concentration and focus and can improve sleep patterns but it also makes an individual feel better about themselves. People who exercise regularly are less likely to be depressed, anxious or tense.”
He added: “I’m delighted that such high profile figures such as Luke and State of Mind are visiting us on this important day so we can raise the profile of mental health issues on campus.
“Recognising University Mental Health Day is another example of our commitment to this issue and follows on from Edge Hill being one of only five Universities to sign the Mental Health Charter for Sport and Recreation.”
University Mental Health Day (UMHD) is an annual event to promote the mental health of those who study and work in higher education settings organised by Student Minds, the UK’s student mental health charity.