“It’s okay to not be okay. You’re allowed to change your mind, to take a break or leave a situation you don’t feel comfortable in. There’s no need to blame yourself for any of those things just like there’s no need to feel bad about… feeling bad. We should all be allowed to fall apart sometimes so that we can find ourselves all over again.”
One in four people will experience a problem with their mental health every year, but it is not something that people find easy to talk about.
At BF we believe it is important to keep conversations about mental health and wellbeing going. We recognise that sport can be both part of a solution but also part of the problem (for example the additional stresses faced by competitive fencers seeking GBR selection). We are taking action to support our community to help create environments where these conversations can take place.
If you are in that place when it feels like there is a dark cloud hanging over you, or things are stressing you out and you feel you can’t face them anymore there are people and organisations that you can reach out to.
If you are struggling then please do start the conversation. It can and will make a difference. What you are experiencing can be helped.
Below are some places where you can find support and someone to talk to:
Mind – https://www.mind.org.uk/
Infoline: 0300 123 3393 – an information and signposting service. Open 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday (except for bank holidays).
Email: info@mind.org.uk, Text: 86463
Samaritans – https://www.samaritans.org
24/7 free helpline with people that you can talk to
Call: 116 123, Email: jo@samaritans.org
Papyrus – https://papyrus-uk.org/
Confidential support and advice service for children and young people (under 35) who are experiencing thoughts of suicide or anyone concerned that a young person could be thinking about suicide
Call: 0800 061 41 41, Mobile 07860 039967, Email: pat@papyrus-uk.org
Changing Minds – https://changingmindsuk.com/
Comprehensive psychological services, working with relationships and strengths to improve wellbeing and performance.
Call 01925 483069, Email: enquiries@changingmindsuk.com
There is also additional mental wellbeing support for athletes on BF programmes – if you would like to access that support please email athletedevelopment@britishfencing.com or speak to any member of the staff/support team and they will help signpost you to the options available.
If you are fencing in a club, you can also reach out to your coach or welfare officer.
(If you want to understand more about mental health and access related resources please click here)
Re-posted from British Fencing – Are you OK?