100 Voices: Aisling McCarthy - On Sport and Mental Health: #NowWereTalking

Sport can be an important outlet for people struggling with their mental well-being. It builds resilience and the team morale can be a support system. I have seen first-hand the support people received from teammates after the loss of close friends. Two tragic bereavements have affected myself and my fellow team members in the last 18 months. The team has rallied together and ensured people have had someone to talk to or a shoulder to cry on. It is important to realise that you do not know how everyone is feeling, and a small gesture (a hug, a text, a smile) could mean the world to someone. As a physiotherapist, it is my duty to encourage people to engage in physical activity and exercise. As well as the many physical health benefits, it is proven to have to have a positive effect on mental health. On World Mental Health Day, I encourage people who are struggling to participate in physical activity, stick with their sport, and turn to their teammates or someone you trust for support. This feeling won’t last forever. Talk!

100 Voices was published in the Hot Press Mental Health Special in conjunction with Lyons Tea and Pieta House as part of the Now We're Talking Campaign. For more please visit hotpress.com/now-were-talking/