“Disappointed with the attitude...”

Is what the great Bill Shankly went on to say, when referencing others’ opinion that football is a matter of life and death... “it’s much, much more important than that” he finished.

Today is World Mental Health day and Shankly’s words focused on the impact that football had on the people that loved the game, not the self-importance of the game.

Whatever the result of the game, for many it is the smell of White Horse Oils, running off the week’s worries on the field of play or the post-match pint that helps Keep them sane.

Playing for White Roding 45s should be a life-affirming experience for all. 1 in 4 individuals will experience a bout of poor mental health at some point this season.... that means 5 of us will be worried, stressed, distracted or depressed more than the general ups & downs in life, or the anticipation of winning the WotW award.

Talking is important, but can only happen if we are willing to listen to each other and look out for the signs. We can all agree that us men are more of a closed book when it comes to discussing personal issues and as such are disproportionately affected as sufferers by 3:1

I have been privileged to have met and listened to footballers, World Cup winning Rugby players, Olympic Gold Medalists and world-renowned psychologists about how Mental & Emotional health is just as important as physical prowess.

It need not be as grand as this, but take an hour to watch Jason McAteer’s powerful documentary... it will open your eyes to the challenges faced in stark honesty.

If you suspect someone is having a hard time, open up to them in private. If you need support, there‘s lots of great advice on the FA, Heads Together or Mind websites. You can always talk to the Gaffer.

Don’t suffer in silence