The Football Mental Health Alliance

The act of quitting is often stigmatised as a sign of failure, but this couldn't be further from the truth. Knowing when to quit - a job, a relationship, or a personal goal, is a testament to one's self-awareness, emotional intelligence and strategic foresight.

Confidence is one of the most desired mental qualities for footballers and athletes. But, you might have noticed that feelings of confidence don't always stick around, especially in difficult moments. This blog will tell you or your child how to turn up-and-down confidence into long-lasting self-belief on the pitch.

The phrase "The magic you are looking for is in the work you are avoiding" serves as a powerful reminder and motivator, suggesting that personal growth, success, and meaningful achievements often lie just beyond the tasks and challenges we tend to resist or put off.

Anxiety is a natural and common emotional response that everyone experiences at some point. It involves feelings of worry, nervousness, or fear, often triggered by specific situations perceived as threatening or stressful. However, when anxiety becomes frequent or overwhelming, it may indicate an anxiety disorder, which requires professional attention and management.

If your physical health is about your body, then mental health is about your mind – about your internal thoughts, feelings and behaviours. As with physical health, your mental health can change regularly and you can experience good mental health – "she’s in a good place" or poor mental health – "he seems a bit down".

At the far end of the mental health range could be a diagnosable mental health condition such as an eating disorder or depression.

Do you want nothing more than to see your child play as well on the pitch as you see them play in training or the garden?

Does there seem to be a gap between what you know they’re capable of and the performance they produce when it matters? How heartbreaking is it for them and you when the power of pressure puts limits on your child’s performance and enjoyment? Contrast that with how excited they are when they play to their potential! This can be the reality more often by using the steps in this article.

I’m here to tell you and your child that pressure doesn’t have to define them.

I can’t help but reflect on a year that has personally been one of the most challenging I’ve ever faced, yet professionally one of the most rewarding.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults. It is characterised by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. Managing these symptoms can be challenging, but one helpful tool is the H.A.L.T. method. This method encourages individuals to check in with themselves when they are feeling Hungry, Angry, Lonely, or Tired.

It is a useful tool for everyone, but it can be especially beneficial for those with ADHD.

Ross Preston talks us through 6 steps to help young footballers embrace pressure.

Do you want nothing more than to see your child play as well on the pitch as you see them play in training or the garden?

Does there seem to be a gap between what you know they’re capable of and the performance they produce when it matters? How heartbreaking is it for them and you when the power of pressure puts limits on your child’s performance and enjoyment? Contrast that with how excited they are when they play to their potential! This can be the reality more often by using the steps in this podcast.

Footie Mums Natalie and Laura sit down and discuss ADHD in grassroots football and life.

In this enlightening and heartfelt episode, Nat and Laura, both mothers of young boys with ADHD, engage in an open and candid discussion about their day-to-day experiences and challenges.

As they navigate through their journey, they shed light on various aspects related to ADHD, especially in the context of grassroots football.

Key topics covered in this conversation include:

Understanding ADHD: Delving into what ADHD is and how it affects their sons' daily lives.

Football and ADHD: Exploring the impact of ADHD on young footballers and how the sport can be both a challenge and a beneficial outlet.

Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD): Discussing this lesser-known aspect of ADHD and its effects on emotional well-being.

School Support for ADHD Families: Sharing insights on how schools can better assist families dealing with ADHD.

Celebrity Insight: Reflecting on Sam Thompson's experience in 'I’m a Celebrity' and how it relates to ADHD.

The Emotional Rollercoaster: Discussing the highs and lows of living with and managing ADHD.

Book Insights: A look into Sarah Templeton’s book, ‘How not to murder your ADHD Kid’, offering valuable perspectives and advice.

Coaching Tips: Tips from football coaches on how to effectively support players with ADHD.

This video is not just for parents of children with ADHD but also for coaches, educators and anyone interested in understanding and supporting ADHD individuals in the grassroots football community.

Join Nat and Laura as they offer a blend of personal experiences, practical advice, and professional insights, making this a must-watch for those seeking to create a more inclusive and supportive environment in grassroots football.