England Golf recognises that 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health problem each year. This is potentially 195,000 members of golf clubs or iGolfers who might experience a mental health problem every year.
As golfers, we understand that golf can be great for our mental health. It can be a great way to focus on something other than our daily worries. But it shouldn’t be the only tool we use to manage difficult emotions. Fore Your Mind has two aims for golfers:
1. To support golfers to understand more about mental health and spot the signs of poor mental health
2. To use that information and encourage golfers to ask their friends, family or four-ball - "Are you okay?"
If you think your life is at immediate risk, call 999, go straight to A&E if you can, or call your local crisis team.
Information
General information on mental health can be found here: What are mental health problems? - Mind.
England Golf wants to encourage golfers to spot the signs within their club, friendship group, or four-ball. We are doing this by supporting golfers to be aware of the signs within their clubs and to feel confident in signposting people to a Mental Health First Aider, the NHS, or other professional support.
It can be challenging to spot the signs of someone struggling with their mental health. Don't forget that everyone is unique, and we all have different ways of showing or talking about our experiences.
Here are some common signs to look out for:
• Avoiding or missing sessions
• Reduced motivation
• Isolating themselves
• Not enjoying activities they usually like
• Quieter or more withdrawn than usual
• Louder or more energetic than usual
• Said they’re feeling sad, anxious or worried
• Extreme mood swings
• Expressed thoughts of self-harm or suicide
• Said they feel trapped or hopeless
• Confused or disordered thoughts
• Difficulty making decisions or concentrating
• Over-sleeping or trouble sleeping
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Drinking or smoking more than usual
• Unexplained headaches or other aches or pains
• Feeling sick or nauseous
• Crying, restless or agitated
• Neglecting self-care
Some people may not show any signs that they’re struggling. This doesn’t make their experiences any less real or hard to cope with.
Where to get help?
NHS – Mental Health Support website - Mental health - NHS.
Mind – Support helplines from Mind are available - Helplines | Mind - Mind or call the information line on 0300 123 3393.
Samaritans – When life is difficult, Samaritans are here – day or night, 365 days a year. You can call them for free on 116 123, email them at jo@samaritans.org, or visit www.samaritans.org to find your nearest branch.
Shout - text SHOUT to 85258, there for you 24/7.
Help for Heroes - Individuals can self-refer by completing an Ask for Help form found on the Help for Heroes website here or make initial contact with the charity via the helpline: 0300 303 9888 - Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm.