Between Monday 13 and Sunday 19 May 2019, Birmingham County FA will be proudly supporting Mental Health Awareness Week, which works to end the stigma surrounding the subject of mental health.

This year, Mental Health Awareness Week will be following the theme of body image; how we think and feel about our bodies.

The sporting world is becoming increasingly aware of, and accommodating towards, the growing tendency of mental health sufferers to communicate their problems and access help.

Birmingham County FA is no exception. 

As the nation’s largest regional FA, Birmingham County FA acknowledges a responsibility to lead the field in its support of those living with mental health illnesses, aiding individuals to return to full fitness, both mental and physical, utilising football as a means of recovery. 

Given its size, the region’s FA is proud to list inclusivity as its greatest strength. The region is home to seven professional clubs, competing across the Premier League and English Football League - needless to say, all boasting large and dedicated fan bases. Yet, perhaps more importantly, we are surrounded by 1,200 clubs (and 4,600 teams) at community level, typifying the popularity of the thriving grassroots game. Such community clubs are pivotal in promoting football’s branding as a game for everyone, with opportunities for adult males and females, and juniors, to participate not only in the regular form of the game, but also its walking, mini, and futsal formats. 

So what has football got to do with mental health? 

Sport has been proven to play a key role in the recovery process of those with depression, anxiety and other mental illnesses. The assumption of personal and social roles synonymous with football actively promotes responsible independence, helping to eradicate any social isolation suffered. Football as a medicine is well reviewed; its status as a ‘global language’ aids the breakdown of barriers otherwise potentially reinforced by anxiety issues. The football pitch, for many sufferers, adopts the role of a sanctuary.

Birmingham County FA realises the benefits of the sport in combatting mental illness. 

Birmingham FA is available to contact on 0121 357 4278 or alternatively follow us via our social channels.

Also, head to the links below, where you can access more helpful information on both Mental Health Awareness Week – and details of useful resources issued by Sport England.

MENTAL HEALTH WEEK 2019 - CLUB SUPPORT PACK

SPORT ENGLAND - MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES

If you believe you are suffering with mental health issues, please do not hesitate to call: 

• Mind charity via the phone on 0300 123 3393 or email sport@mind.org.uk
• The Samaritans, on 116 123