Mindspace Mayo is using the upcoming GAA season to encourage people to think about the small things they can do to support their mental health.
GAA players often make an extra effort to deliver the “one-percenters”, those small acts not usually counted in the match statistics, but which can add up to influence a game’s outcome. Similarly, “one-percenters” in life can make a big difference to a person’s mental health and wellbeing.
This year, Mindspace and Mayo GAA aim to encourage people to think about their mental health “one-percenters”. These might include spending time with friends, staying active, getting enough sleep, staying hydrated and knowing the signs and symptoms of mental health issues.
At Mayo GAA home games at MacHale Park this year you will see a large sign located at one end of the ground bearing the simple message — “Talking About Mental Health is the Game Changer”
“Mindspace Mayo has long recognised the power of sport to help change community attitudes,” Peadar Gardiner Mindspace Project Manager said.
“Like those one-percenters in the GAA, simply talking about mental health can make a difference. “Making mental health a part of everyday conversations helps eliminate stigma and encourages support-seeking,
“Mindspace Mayo is delighted that our partnership with Mayo GAA helps us highlight the importance of talking openly about mental health.”
Mayo GAA chairperson Liam Moffatt said: “Our partnership with Mindspace Mayo provides a terrific platform for people to talk openly with their team-mates, coaches, friends or family members about their mental health and how they keep well”.
Liam Moffatt said that Mayo GAA was serious about supporting the mental health of its players and supporters.
“At Mayo GAA, we look after the mental and physical health of our players equally because one is just as important as the other,” Mr Moffatt said. “We’re excited to be working with Mindspace Mayo again and continuing the conversation about how talking about mental health reduces stigma around anxiety and low mood.”
