World Mental Health Day 2023
Every year we celebrate World Mental Health Day on 10 October. The theme for 2023, set by the World Foundation of Mental Health, is ‘Mental health is a universal human right’.
World Mental Health Day is about raising awareness of mental health and driving positive change for everyone’s mental health.
It’s also a chance to talk about mental health, how we need to look after it, and how important it is to get help if you are struggling.
Sport can play a crucial role when it comes to mental health. It can help people’s recovery; help manage symptoms and improve the quality of people's lives. Whether it’s in mainstream, community football clubs, or in specialised sport and mental health projects, football can deliver massive benefits. There are three crucial ways that football can help:
• Delivering social inclusion
• Helping physical health
• Improving people’s mental health
Find out more, here!
Links from The FA
The FA has multiple partnerships with mental health charities including; Mind, CALM, Heads Together and Sporting Chance with direct links to their channels available. You can also find a mental health handbook and other useful resources, here!
Additionally, there is also guidance available specifically for referees which is available to download: Mental health guidance notes for referees
Links within Greater Manchester
If you are struggling with your mental health and need help locally you can find information and support from the following places.
Greater Manchester Mental Health:
If you need help in a crisis, please call our 24/7 free helpline on 0800 953 0285.
Crisis Cafe at No. 93 Harpurhey:
The Greater Manchester Mental Health (GMMH) Crisis Cafe is a new out of hours friendly and supportive space open to anyone in a crisis in Manchester, Bolton, Salford and Trafford, Monday to Friday: 8pm to 1am (including Bank Holidays) Saturday and Sunday: 3pm to 1am.
Call 07778012838 or 0161 271 0339. Please phone ahead before dropping in.
Manchester Mind:
Salford Mind:
We are seeing great mental health initiatives and football projects within the Greater Manchester Community which have become an important staple to improving people's lives in the area. If you are interested in getting involved, please visit the links and get in touch with them.
Manchester FA x Talk Club:
Mental Health Football:
Manchester Football Therapy:
Happy Somedays:
Get Onside Mental Wellbeing Football - Stockport:
Remember, there is always help available. You are never alone.