Sports & Men’s Mental Health

Sports & Men’s Mental Health

Intro:

I explored the relation sports has to men’s mental health with a focus on how physical activity and shared spaces can boost wellbeing. My research looked into social connection and mood benefits.

Research & References:

Source:“The impact of sports participation on mental health and social outcomes in adults: A systematic review” (2023)​ 

• This review concluded that adults who regularly participate in sport tend to report a better mental health, higher self-esteem & life satisfaction, lower levels of depression, anxiety and stress. In addition to improving these factors it also highlighted the social benefits such as improving interpersonal communication, selfcontrol and a stronger sense of belonging, this was especially prevalent with those participating in team sports. 

Source:“The Benefits of Physical Activity on Men’s Mental Health” (Healthy Essentials Clinic, 2023)​ 

• In this article they explained how regular physical activity can reduce men’s risk of any mental health problems along with lowering stress, anxiety and depression. It highlighted the benefits of participating in team sports / group exercise stating that it helps build social connections, support networks, and gives men a sense of belonging and trustworthy people to talk to.

Visual Representation:

Team Sport environment – showcasing team sports are more than just exercise and it’s a community of friends.

Personal Experience:

• Growing up I’ve always been involved in team sports such as football and rugby and in many cases more than one at a time. This helped not only improve my physical health growing up but also gave me access to a whole new group of people to talk to and be friends with.
• My current friendship circle emerged due to being in the same football and rugby team, and although we are no longer part of either team we still share that bond.

Here is an early photo of me and my rugby team in year 8 where I had met two of my closest friends.