Support plays a key role in boosting mental health of sports stars
We all have tough times in life or challenges with our mental health and wellbeing, just as we do with our physical health. Support from people close to us and our networks can make all the difference, even for the sporting stars we think are invincible.
Prince Harry got his apron on and hosted a Heads Together BBQ last week with sports stars Rio Ferdinand, Dame Kelly Holmes, Victoria Pendleton, Jonathan Trott and Iwan Thomas. He talked to them about the tough times that they have been through and the support that has helped.
Many of them brought along someone that has supported and helped them through a difficult time.
Have a look at what they had to say and check out their French Cricket skills and Prince Harry and Iwan Thomas taking charge of the BBQ.
Most of us will go through a difficult time at some point in our lives, including the sporting stars we may think are invincible. Hearing sporting heroes and role models talking openly about their tough times, and what support has helped them, can help us all feel more confident about reaching out for support when we need it.
Pince Harry and the sports stars were joined at the BBQ by a number of representatives from the Heads Together charity partners, who have used or set up sport related support networks to benefit the mental wellbeing of themselves or others.
Vera, a mum of two from Camden, joined Prince Harry and the sports stars. Vera volunteers on our parents' panel and delivers training on a peer-led being a parent course. Outside of her work for the Centre, she has also set up a holistic summer holiday programme in Camden for parents and children to promote their mental and physical health. It has been set up through the North Camden Zone.
Vera said: “I think Prince Harry is a real character! He made the atmosphere relaxed. I came out inspired to take on other challenges and am considering running a marathon. I strongly believe that sport and social support are so important for both mental and physical well-being and help us to develop a positive attitude towards life.”
Heads Together will be featuring individual films with each of the athletes who came along to the BBQ throughout the week. Visit the Heads Together website for more information.