
Football West have announced a newly developed mental health campaign aimed at providing support for West Australian clubs and their members.
The campaign, which was produced alongside Football West partner Healthway, promotes the Think Mental Health message and focuses on five key themes:
- respect for others
- diversity and inclusion
- the importance of participation as opposed to just winning
- a supportive club environment
- a healthy game atmosphere
Football West Partnerships Manager Monica Naves outlined that this preventive campaign aims to promote healthy and respectful club and competition environments.
“It has been specially designed for the WA football community,” Naves said via Football West.
“We want to share the message that there are so many positives to take from being involved in football.
“As well as the lifelong friendships that are made and the resilience developed through playing sport, we know it can have such a beneficial effect on physical and mental health.
“We also understand that winning is important, but it can never be the only thing that matters. We would love clubs to get involved and put their brand on the message.”
Healthway CEO Ralph Addis added that the partnership with Football West was helping to empower football clubs across the state to advocate for good health, including mental wellbeing.
“This fantastic campaign is also supported by a range of mental health resources and training that will be delivered to clubs to increase awareness of mental wellbeing and encourage positive behaviours,” Addis said via Football West.
The campaign will be promoted across all of Football West’s social media platforms and website. Clubs are encouraged to get involved and will have access to the campaign’s graphics which they can edit to include their club logo. Those needing help with customisation are encouraged to contact Football West via tmh@footballwest.com.au.