Scotland’s largest mental health charity is hosting a free panel discussion exploring how physical activity and sport can help tackle the current mental health crisis.

SAMH (Scottish Action for Mental Health) are inviting anyone involved in local sport, such as coaches, personal trainers, jog leaders and more, to join the event, hosted at the stunning Playfair Library Hall at the University of Edinburgh on Friday 29 November.

Speaking at the event will be Stuart Campbell, Director of the World Athletics Indoor Championships in Glasgow—the first major event in Scotland to pledge to Scotland’s Mental Health Charter. Stuart will be joined by Professor Larissa Davies, a specialist in the economic impact of sport and physical activity. Attendees will also hear first-hand from people with lived experience of mental health problems, and the role physical activity had in their recovery.

Stuart Campbell, Director of the World Athletics Indoor Championships 2024, said: “My goal is to highlight what can be achieved through a social impact campaign in partnership with a major sporting event. We need input from all corners of our communities to challenge us to improve.

“This is a chance to start working together to ensure that upcoming sporting events truly resonate and prioritise your best interests. A Scotland that values wellbeing, supports mental health, and cares for its citizens is a stronger, prouder, and more prosperous Scotland.”

Attendees will have the opportunity to create connections with industry peers, share best practice, spread awareness of their work and ask questions directly to our panel of leading experts during a Q&A session.

Professor Larissa Davies, Professor of Applied Sport Economics at the Manchester Metropolitan University, said: “Physical activity is an important preventative health tool for combating poor mental health. 

“Being active reduces the likelihood of depression and anxiety, as well as the risk of non-communicable health conditions such as dementia. In addition, it also improves life satisfaction and general wellbeing.

“The case for investing in physical activity to address Scotland’s mental health crisis has never been stronger.

“My research focuses on measuring and valuing the social value of sport and physical activity, including the impacts on health, wellbeing, and social capital, both in the UK and internationally.

“Recent projects include the new social value model for sport and physical activity in England, and a study of Gaelic Games on the island of Ireland.

“I am looking forward to sharing more about my social value research, which spans across more than 15 years.”

The event is delivered in partnership with sportscotland and the University of Edinburgh and is free to attend for anyone who is interested.

Sign-up here Active Lifestyles: A high impact, low cost mental health solution Tickets, Fri, Nov 29, 2024 at 10:00 AM | Eventbrite