RCBC and the North Riding FA have teamed up with local grassroots club Redcar CF, to raise awareness of men's mental health, as part of World Mental Health Day, which takes place on Sunday, 10 October.
Redcar CF players could be seen wearing their new training gear this week with the campaign branding 'There's No Substitute for good mental health' on the back, designed to remind them to look after their mental as well as physical health.
The 'No Substitute' campaign, which was launched earlier this year uses football to get the message out that there is help available and talking about your mental health should not be seen as a sign of weakness.
Cabinet Member for Health, Housing and Welfare, Cllr Steve Kay, said:
“One in eight men in England suffer with a mental health problem such as depression or anxiety however men are much less likely to access professional help with only 36% of referrals to NHS talking therapies being from men.
“These statistics and the fact that suicide is the biggest killer of men under 50 meant that we had to do something to try and raise the issue of men's mental health.
“The 'No substitute' campaign and the partnership we have built up with the North Riding FA and local grassroots teams will help raise awareness of men's mental health and the help that is out there if you are struggling with your mental health.
“A great starting point is the 'Every Mind Matters' website which has a free planner and tips on how to deal with stress and anxiety, improving sleep and boosting your mood."
Jonny McNaughton, League Secretary of the Langbaurgh League and Club Secretary for Redcar CF, explained:
"I was approached by the North Riding FA and asked if my club wanted to get involved with the 'No substitute' for good mental health campaign and immediately I said yes.
“After the past year, with the players I have currently and players in the past, I have seen loads of the lads struggling and coming through bad patches with their mental health but I have also seen how getting together to play football makes people forget about their issues and focus on one thing and that is sport.
“By bringing sport and mental health together this campaign creates the perfect bridge to talk about issues and make sure you are double checking on your friends by asking them if they are OK and also seeing for yourself when you meet up for football."
Andy Clay, Football Development Manager at the North Riding FA added:
“We are absolutely delighted with how the 'No Substitute' campaign has developed.
“From the very onset we were confident that football can use its collective power to tackle mental health and the stigma that surrounds it.
“Equally important to this campaign, was to emphasise the benefits of an active lifestyle and the positive impact this can have on people. The North Riding FA will continue to work collaboratively with the Council, showcasing the outstanding examples within grassroots football."
It is estimated that 1 in 6 people in the past week experienced a common mental health problem in the UK.
Work out your game plan by visiting www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters/