Last week was Mental Health Awareness Week, with the theme being ‘kindness’. Across the week we highlighted the kindness of members, athletes and the wider sporting community during lockdown.
Beginning the week British Triathlon’s CEO, Andy Salmon recorded a message thanking the swim, bike, run community for the amazing spirit that has been demonstrated throughout this lockdown period.
We also caught up with PTVI guide, Nikki Bartlett and lead paratriathlon coach, Bex Milnes to discuss the importance of being kind and to see how they have been supporting their community through fancy dress runs and fundraising for local charities.
The multisport community have been amazing at raising funds for various charities, and this week, we shared the story of Lymington Triathlon Club’s challenge. The club raised £2,700 for the New Forest Basics Bank by covering the distance from Land’s End to John O’Groats and back again, twice.
Of course, this week is about much more than kindness. It’s important that the people that need advice, support and guidance can find that in the right places.
Throughout the week, our social media channels have been sharing information about where you can find help and advice on how to best support yourself and the people around you.
The stigma associated with mental health problems can be broken down by conversations that promote good mental health and wellbeing. We've created a list of five challenges for you to try, focusing on being kind to others, but also being kind to yourself too. #KindnessMatters pic.twitter.com/zL167dey7Q
— British Triathlon (@BritTri) May 19, 2020
Our performance athletes shared some of the things that they have been doing to show kindness too. Asking you to do the same, here’s what they said.
One thing that we have seen all over the world is that kindness is prevailing in uncertain times. The added benefit of helping others is that it is good for our own mental health. We asked some of our GB triathletes what kind act they've done recently. #KindnessMatters pic.twitter.com/QZhWdC6Bzj
— British Triathlon (@BritTri) May 21, 2020
Finally, the week finished with a blog post sharing top tips from the paratriathlon programme head coach, Jonathon Riall and Olympic triathlete, Non Stanford about how to stay motivated and look after yourself both physically and mentally during lockdown.
It’s important to recognise that awareness of mental health shouldn’t end with this week. Mental Health Awareness Week with British Triathlon has showcased the importance of supporting the wellbeing of not only the people around you, but also practicing self-care all year round.
If you or someone you know needs advice or support, please contact your GP or Mind on 0300 123 3393 or info@mind.org.uk
