A range of resources to use if you’re feeling low
Basketball England want our staff, players and volunteers to feel as supported as possible.
Mind has been supporting us to ensure everyone experiencing a mental health concern gets sufficient support and respect. Our wellbeing toolkit brings together a range of resources we hope you will find useful. If you’re feeling low, there may be something small you can do to improve how you feel.
“It's one of those things that no matter how 'indestructible' we look like we are, we're all human at the end of the day. We all got feelings...sometimes…it gets the best of you.” NBA star DeMar DeRozan.
We are aware that evidence suggests that taking part in physical activity can have a profound and positive impact on mental wellbeing. Being physically active can improve mood, decrease the chance of depression and anxiety and lead to a better and more balanced lifestyle.
Basketball is a powerful way to build strong mental health, particularly in young people. It provides an opportunity to build mental health skills that can be utilised throughout life, building confidence, empathy and teambuilding ability.
1) Connect with people
Social relationships are critical for promoting wellbeing and for acting as a buffer against mental ill health for people of all ages.
Try to do something different when you’re at your next club session or competition and make a connection.
- Speak to someone new
- Ask how someone’s session or competition is going and really listen when they tell you
- Put five minutes aside to find out how someone really is
2) Be active
Regular physical activity is associated with lower rates of depression and anxiety across all age groups. Exercise is essential for slowing age-related cognitive decline and for promoting well-being.
It doesn’t need to be intense for you to feel good, just pick up a basketball.
- Attend a club session
- Enter a basketball competition
- Set up an activity at home to practice some skills
3) Take notice
Being aware of what is taking place in the present enhances your well-being. Savouring ‘the moment’ can help to reaffirm your own life priorities.
Take some time to enjoy the moment and the environment around you.
- Take notice of how players and volunteers in the club are feeling or acting
- Listen to the sounds of the basketballs as people play
- Watch coaches and players interacting and enjoying the benefits of our sport
4) Keep learning
Continued learning through life enhances self-esteem and encourages social interaction and a more active life.
Why not learn something new today?
- Find out something about the players and volunteers in your club
- Sign up to a Basketball England course
- Ask a coach or official to develop your skills or knowledge in the sport
5) Give
Individuals who report a greater interest in helping others are more likely to rate themselves as happy. Committing an act of kindness once a week over a six-week period is associated with an increase in wellbeing.
Why not help at your club or provide support to a new member or consider volunteering at an upcoming BE competition.