Sports Plays a Crucial Role in Men’s Mental Health

Sports can give a mental, physical, and social boost that can help many men escape the greatest cause of death for those between 15 and 25: suicide.Ollyy/Shutterstock

There’s no doubt that sports play a crucial role in men’s mental health. From keeping men active and healthy to providing an outlet for stress and tension, sports can positively affect overall well-being. In fact, many professional athletes attribute their success to the importance of maintaining a healthy mind and body.

If you want to improve your mental health, consider adding sports to your routine. You may be surprised at just how beneficial they can be.

Sadly, the third-leading cause of death for people aged 15 to 24 is suicide, and the majority of those deaths are male. This shows how vital it is to find a way to support young men’s mental health as they transition from adolescence to adulthood.

For many boys, sports can be a “safe space” where they can receive positive socialization and engagement. As a significant part of their life, it’s logical that sports can play an important role in protecting mental health.

A recent study published in BMC Public Health examined data from young males playing sports. The study included two main sports: cricket and Australian-rules football. All participants were interviewed to gain a deeper understanding of the role of sports in their lives and their mental well-being.

The study found that players viewed sporting clubs as an environment that was an important place for physical health and to shape young men’s positive mental health attitudes.

“We identified a number of positive elements to playing for a sporting club, including having like-minded friends, as a release from the stressors of school and the ability to engage with other males irrespective of age or demographic,” said lead author professor Murray Drummond.

These sports clubs bring together different ages of boys to provide positive role models for the younger players. Strategic leadership and mentoring were keys to developing respectful relationships and positively shaping the young men’s identities.

This study helps to show how sports can play a crucial role in men’s mental health as they age. While some people see sports as simply a way to get physical exercise, this example helps to extend the vision of how sports can play a vital role in mental health.

Sarah Cownley earned a diploma in nutritional therapy from Health Sciences Academy in London. She enjoys helping others by teaching healthy lifestyle changes through her personal consultations and with her regular contributions to the Doctors Health Press. This article was originally published on Bel Marra Health.