Reignite Your Passion for Sport: The Key to Mental Wellbeing this World Mental Health Day

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With depression impacting 1 in 6 adults across the UK, World Mental Health Day on October 10th offers a timely reminder of the vital role sport and physical activity play in supporting mental wellbeing. At Harrod Sport, we're encouraging adults to rediscover their love for sport and reconnect with the physical and mental health benefits it brings.

Research reveals that nearly 28% of UK adults gave up a sport they once loved as children—whether due to a loss of interest or time constraints. Even more concerning, 37% of men and women admit that feeling unfit prevents them from re-engaging with sport. These statistics highlight a pressing issue: many adults are missing out on a simple yet powerful tool for mental health support.

Exercise has long been proven to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression by releasing endorphins that boost your mood and enhance overall wellbeing. By making sport a regular part of your routine, you can not only improve your physical fitness but also safeguard your mental health!

Our research also found that while 22% of parents encourage their children to participate in sports for physical health benefits, only 18% recognize the equally important mental health benefits. This demonstrates a gap in understanding the holistic value of sport, not just for children but for adults too...

"World Mental Health Day provides an important opportunity to shine a light on the positive effects sports can have on mental wellbeing," says Kate Pasque, Sports Business Development Manager at Harrod Sport. "With depression affecting so many in the UK, it's more important than ever that we highlight how getting back into sport can contribute to both mental and physical health.

"It's also concerning to see how many adults drop out of sport after school. We understand how busy life gets, but making sport accessible to all fitness levels can help bridge the gap. Parents, too, should be mindful of the mental health benefits that come with encouraging their kids to take part in sport."

As World Mental Health Day approaches, Harrod Sport is calling on adults across the UK to pick up a ball, dust off those boots, and get back into the game.

Major sporting events often inspire a wave of participation. With the Rugby World Cup and Cricket World Cup in full swing, and the recent excitement around the Women's World Cup, now is the perfect time to rediscover the joy and benefits of sport.

Our study also found that beyond mental health benefits, motivations to get back into sport include achieving fitness goals (28%), pure enjoyment (22%), and the social connections that sport fosters (20%).

As the UK's leading manufacturer of sports ground equipment and a proud partner of England Hockey, England Netball, and Badminton England, Harrod Sport is committed to promoting both physical and mental wellness through sport. For more information about what we do, visit Harrod Sport.

If you're struggling with your mental health, it's always important to talk to someone. Below are some resources that can help:

Let's use this World Mental Health Day to not only raise awareness but take action—get active, get involved, and support your mental health through sport.