Mental Health Articles and Infographics for Grassroots Football - The Football Mental Health Alliance Vault

Coach Wellbeing in Grassroots Football

“That’s Football” Isn’t a Welfare Policy: Who Supports the Coaches? A parent/carer/guardian (PCG) steps forward because the team needs someone. Just temporary, they say. A few weeks. Then the weeks…

Building a More Supportive Environment in Grassroots Football

Following on from the recent article Supporting Your Child and Yourself in Grassroots Football The Next Chapter, When Parents Step Forward, Everyone Benefits An encouraging shift is beginning to take…

Supporting Your Child and Yourself in Grassroots Football

Grassroots football can be a hugely positive part of a child’s life, including you as a Parent/Carer/Guardian (PCG). It offers friendship, routine, confidence, and a sense of belonging. For neurodivergent…

Building Your Resilience Bank

Think of resilience like a bank account. Every positive experience, every challenge you overcome, every supportive interaction adds to your balance. When tough times come – a bad match, criticism,…

Building Team Resilience and Recognising Mental Health Warning Signs

As a grassroots football coach, you’re in a unique position to influence not just players’ technical development, but their mental health and wellbeing. Players often spend more time with you…

When Adults Destroy What Children Build

Every weekend, I watch the same scenario unfold. A young referee – 15, maybe 16 years old – walks onto the pitch. Recently trained, nervous as hell, giving up their…

Why Facebook Football Groups Can’t Solve Your Neurodiversity and Mental Health Questions

You’ve got a question. A challenge. A situation you don’t know how to handle. So where do you go? Facebook groups. Thousands of them. Tens of thousands of members. And…

What Parents Are Starting to Google (And What It Means For Your Football Club)

The game is changing. Parents/carers/guardians (PCGs) are educating themselves. And clubs aren’t keeping up. Here’s what’s coming. What PCGs Are Searching For Google Trends tells a clear story. Searches for…

The Document That Prevents Your Club From Breaching the Equality Act

Most clubs are one complaint away from a serious problem. Not because they’re doing anything malicious. But because they can’t prove they’ve done anything at all. Here’s the document that…

Why ‘Difficult Behaviour’ Might Actually Be Unmet Neurodivergent Needs

You’re seeing it more and more. Players who “won’t listen.” Kids who “act out.” Behaviour that disrupts sessions. Coaches are frustrated. Parents/carers/guardians are defensive. Everyone’s stuck. Here’s what’s actually happening.…

The Equality Act Obligation Most Grassroots Clubs Don’t Know They Have

The Equality Act 2010 has been law for fifteen years. Most grassroots clubs still don’t understand their obligations. Here’s what you need to know. What the Law Actually Says Under…

Suicide

Guest post from Stan Collymore TRIGGER WARNING: This article contains explicit discussion of suicide methods, graphic descriptions of death by hanging and strong language. It discusses the lasting trauma experienced…

The Uncomfortable Truth About Grassroots Football

Here’s the uncomfortable truth about grassroots football right now. We’re asking volunteer coaches, welfare officers and safeguarding leads to handle increasingly complex neurodiversity, mental health and safeguarding situations with nothing…

The Grassroots Referee Mental Health Crisis: Part 3

It’s Time to Demand Better: Our Collective Responsibility Here’s what we need to understand: individual resilience strategies, while necessary for our immediate survival, will never solve this crisis. The root…

The Grassroots Referee Mental Health Crisis: Part 2

Surviving the System While We Fight to Change It While we work toward systemic change, we still need to protect our mental health and maintain our effectiveness as officials. The…

The Grassroots Referee Mental Health Crisis: Part 1

The Grassroots Referee Mental Health Crisis: Why We Can’t Cope Our Way Out of a Broken System Fellow referees, let’s be brutally honest about what’s happening to us. You know…

Introducing The Secret Referee

You don’t know me, but you know my story. I’m the referee who drives home alone after another match, wondering why I put myself through this. I’m the official who…

Taming Pre-Match Nerves

Every footballer knows the feeling. Your stomach churns as you lace up your boots. Your heart pounds as you walk onto the pitch. Whether you’re eight or eighty, playing in…

Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health in Football

As a parent, carer or guardian (PCG), you naturally want your child to flourish in football, to experience the joy of playing, forge meaningful friendships, develop their abilities and build…

Referees’ Wellbeing: Dealing with Criticism and Maintaining Confidence

If you’re reading this as a football official, you already know what others might not fully understand: officiating is one of the most mentally challenging roles in grassroots football. You…

Match Day Mental Health

From pressure to performance: Match day brings a unique energy to grassroots football. The anticipation, excitement, and yes – the pressure- can create a perfect storm of emotions for players,…

How Pressure Affects Coaches’ Mental Health

In grassroots football, there’s a paradox that can affect coaches’ mental health. The coaches who follow best practices, i.e. those focusing on player development, long-term growth and enjoyment over immediate…

The Kindness Goal

Football is full of goals – scoring them, preventing them, celebrating them. Here’s a different type of goal that can boost mental wellbeing for everyone in your football community: The…

The Power of Gratitude: How It Helps Your Mind

Beyond “Just Be Grateful” Let’s get one thing straight: we’re not about to tell you to “just be grateful” when you’re struggling, or suggest that positive thinking can solve all…

Five Ways to Boost Your Mood on Tough Days

When Everything Feels Heavy We’ve all been there. You wake up and everything just feels… off. Maybe you’ve got a work deadline looming, your family is getting on your nerves,…

Understanding Mental Health in Grassroots Football

What Actually Is Mental Health? When you hear “mental health,” what comes to mind? If you’re picturing someone having a complete breakdown on the touchline or a player who can’t…

Physical Reset Routine for Footballers

Mistakes are inevitable in football. Whether it’s a misplaced pass, a missed tackle or a squandered scoring opportunity, how players respond to these moments can define their performance. For players…

What ADHD Actually Means

If you ask a doctor or read a medical book, it will define ADHD as a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by traits of impulsivity, forgetfulness, and disorganisation. But it’s so much…

Ask, don’t tell: A different approach to coaching young players with ADHD

Understanding ADHD in Grassroots Football Coaching all young players in grassroots football requires patience, adaptability and an understanding of how different children learn and respond to instructions. This is especially…

Silent Battles: The Reality of Autism Beyond Stereotypes

I might not seem autistic, but that doesn’t mean it affects me any less. On the outside, I might look like everybody else, but inside my own head, it’s a…

Living with ADHD feels like life is on hard mode

Living with ADHD feels like life is on hard mode. It’s as if my brain is ruled by a never-ending pursuit of dopamine – always chasing that next hit of…

Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria in Grassroots Football

A Coach’s Perspective As a grassroots football coach, I’ve seen how Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD) can significantly impact players with ADHD. When you’ve been coaching youth teams long enough, you…

Understanding Neurodiversity: A Guide for Neurotypical Players Supporting Their Neurodiverse Teammates

Do your players sometimes struggle to understand their neurodiverse teammate’s needs? Creating an environment where neurotypical players comprehend and support neurodiversity within the team is essential for building genuine inclusion,…

Is Neurodiversity a Mental Health Condition?

Neurodiversity refers to natural variations in brain development and function, not a mental health condition. Introduced in the 1990s by Australian sociologist Judy Singer, this concept compares brain differences to…

Joy Suppression in Autism

This story was found on Reddit and highlights how the suppression of authentic emotional expression in neurodivergent youth doesn’t simply fade away – it evolves into profound communication barriers in…

NHS 111 offers new mental health service

The NHS in England has expanded its 111 service to include dedicated mental health support, providing a crucial lifeline for those in crisis. This service connects callers to local mental…

How untreated depression affected my performance

How untreated depression affected my performance… • Constantly feeling tired – no matter how many hours I would sleep• Isolated myself in the dressing room – I felt irritated by…

Football Fandom: More Than Just a Game – A Lifeline for Young Men’s Mental Health

Guest post by Sophie Charlesworth In today’s fast-paced world, young men face unique pressures that can negatively impact their mental health. So, with the new football season upon us, it…

The 48 Symptoms of Menopause

Guest post by Gen-M Chairman, Julian Kynaston Julian Kynaston is the Chair of GenM, the menopause partner for brands. GenM, founded by Heather Jackson and Sam Simister, empowers its Collective…

R;pple Suicide Prevention: A Lifeline in the Digital Age

R;pple Suicide Prevention is an innovative digital tool designed to intercept harmful online content related to self-harm and suicide. Founded by Alice Hendy MBE, R;pple aims to provide immediate support…

Kicking Off for Fun: Why Enjoyment Should Be at the Heart of Youth Football

Guest post by best-selling author, Johnnie Lowery Over four million children in England play football, which for many is the start of a lifelong love affair with the sport. Many…

My name is Steven, and I am a compulsive gambler

Guest post by The Vault Ambassador, Steven Caulker. The first time I said these words I was 19, doing my first stint in rehab. I never really knew what they…

ADHD Tips from Real People on the Internet

The following tips and advice on managing ADHD have been sourced from personal experiences shared by individuals on the internet. This information should not be considered medical advice. As with…

Journalling for Mental Health

What are the benefits of journalling for mental health? Journalling is a widely recognised and effective tool for enhancing mental health, offering numerous benefits that span emotional, psychological, and cognitive…

“Why are you so quiet today?”

Guest post by Lewis Kemp, CEO at Lightbulb Media. Have you ever walked into a packed bar or a football stadium? Y’know, where you’re enveloped by that dull buzz of…

Quitting is for Winners

Quitting is for Winners: The Positive Power of Knowing When to Let GoThe act of quitting is often stigmatised as a sign of failure, but this couldn’t be further from…

Techniques for Developing Lasting Confidence in Football

Guest post by Ross Preston (SEPiT), Founder of Challenger Mindset. Confidence is one of the most desired mental qualities for footballers and athletes. But, you might have noticed that feelings…

333 Method for Anxiety

Anxiety is a natural and common emotional response that everyone experiences at some point. It involves feelings of worry, nervousness, or fear, often triggered by specific situations perceived as threatening…

The magic you are looking for is in the work you are avoiding

The phrase “The magic you are looking for is in the work you are avoiding” serves as a powerful reminder and motivator, suggesting that personal growth, success, and meaningful achievements…

Understanding HALT: A Tool for Managing ADHD

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults. It is characterised by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. Managing these symptoms can be…

7 Key Reflections from 2023

Guest post by Dean Buckle, Head of Compliance and Inclusion at Northumberland FA. I can’t help but reflect on a year that has personally been one of the most challenging…

How to Help Young Footballers Embrace Pressure

Do you want nothing more than to see your child play as well on the pitch as you see them play in training or the garden? Does there seem to…

What is Mental Health and what can you do to maintain or improve it?

Guest post by David Harrop – Group Finance Director at Reward Finance Group What is Mental Health and what can you do to maintain or improve it? If your physical…

You Are Not Alone – Norwich City

The Norwich City #YouAreNotAlone video was the pinnacle of the club’s longer-term strategy to proactively promote positive mental health. As a club, this all started for them in June 2022…

Four Tips for Stress Management

Guest post by Martin Roberts Grassroots football coaching can be stressful if not more than our ‘day jobs’ Why – because we can sometimes strive for perfectionism in ourselves which sets…

Techniques for Coaching Children and Young People with ADHD

Guest post by The Vault Ambassador Tasha Walsh (Accred.MBACP & Supervisor) In the vibrant and dynamic world of grassroots football, coaching children and young people (CYP) with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)…

Panic Attacks & The 5 Senses

Panic attacks can occur unexpectedly, causing intense fear and discomfort even when no real danger is present. Recognising the early signs and understanding how to manage these symptoms can make…

Ted Lasso – Be Curious, Not Judgemental

The character of Ted Lasso himself battles mental health challenges. As the series progresses, it is revealed that Ted suffers from panic attacks, offering an insightful portrayal of how even…

Protected Characteristics Under UK Law

The nine protected characteristics under UK law are outlined in the Equality Act 2010. They are as follows: These characteristics are protected under the Equality Act to prevent discrimination, harassment,…

Possible Signs of ADHD

ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurological condition that impacts behavioural tendencies. Appropriate understanding, support and sometimes, medication can serve as effective management strategies. Here are several common…

How Can I Make it Pro?

Guest post from Steven Caulker. Professional footballer, Steven Caulker has 13+ years experience of playing top-flight football in England, Scotland & Turkey. Amongst others, he has played for QPR, Southampton,…

Things not to say to someone with ADHD

Guest post by ADHD Coach, Graham Summerscales Lack of awareness can push the ADHD’er to feel overwhelmed, just saying what could be perceived as a non-offending statement, can be so…

5 Things not to do during/after training or a match

When it comes to the game, the way we approach training and matches can greatly influence our performance and overall experience. As players, coaches, or supportive spectators, it’s essential to…

Tips to help you overcome the fear of failure

Overcoming a fear of failure can be a challenging process, but there are steps you can take to help you manage and reduce your fear: Challenge Negative Thoughts Fear of…

How coaches can support their players to manage worry

ENCOURAGE Encourage them to talk openly and honestly about their concerns, fears, and worries. IDENTIFY Help them to identify the source of their worry and develop strategies to address it.…

The impact of stigma

In a world where open conversations about mental health are gaining momentum, the impact of stigma continues to cast shadows over those living with mental health conditions. Stigma not only…

Tips on how to manage your thoughts

Managing thoughts and challenging unhelpful thoughts is essential for grassroots footballers to improve their mental game, stay motivated, and maintain a positive attitude. Here are some strategies to help manage…

The benefits of mental health first aid training for your Club.

Undertaking a mental health first aid (MHFA) course can offer numerous benefits for individuals, communities and clubs. Some of these benefits include: 1. Improved mental health literacy: As club members,…

Box Breathing

Box breathing, also known as four-square breathing or square breathing, is a simple yet effective breathing technique often used to reduce stress, promote relaxation, and improve focus. It involves taking…

How to check in on your mental health

It’s very important to check in regularly with your own mental health. It can help you identify any concerns early on. If you’re not checking in on your mental health…

How to teach players to challenge their negative thoughts

As a grassroots football coach, your role extends beyond teaching technical skills and tactics; it also involves supporting your players’ mental well-being. One significant aspect of mental well-being is addressing…

Five steps to mental wellbeing

The NHS recommends these five steps based on research and evidence to enhance wellbeing. Incorporating these steps into daily life may increase happiness, positivity, and overall life satisfaction. 1. Connect: Nurture…

More ways to help your players become more confident

Developing confident grassroots footballers requires a thoughtful and methodical approach, starting with setting achievable goals. By establishing realistic objectives, coaches can inspire motivation, create a sense of accomplishment, and instil…

Setting achievable goals for developing confident grassroots footballers

SMART goals are a widely used framework for setting clear, achievable, and effective objectives. In the context of a grassroots footballer, SMART goals can help players and coaches create a…

6 steps to developing confident grassroots footballers

Developing confident grassroots footballers is essential for nurturing their talents, creating a love for the sport, and laying the foundation for long-term success. A confident player is more likely to…

What is Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (ED&I)?

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (ED&I) are essential principles that create a healthy, respectful, and thriving environment for everyone. In the context of grassroots football clubs, embracing ED&I can create a…

How a football coach can support individuals who are neurodiverse

Supporting players who are neurodiverse in sports, especially football, has rightly, gained more attention in recent years. Autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and dyspraxia are among the conditions that fall under the…

Possible signs of anxiety in players

How can a football coach spot signs of anxiety in their players? A football coach can spot signs of anxiety in their players by paying attention to changes in their…

7 ways to support a friend with ADHD

The natural variation in brain shape and function that exists in the human population is referred to as neurodiversity. It acknowledges that people who live with conditions including autism, ADHD, dyslexia,…

5 ways to increase self-confidence in grassroots footballers

Instilling confidence in grassroots footballers is key to positively affecting their mental health. When players feel confident on the pitch, they may experience a range of positive emotions such as…

How to regularly monitor your players’ mental health

Regularly monitoring and addressing the mental health of players in grassroots football is vital for their overall well-being, performance, and long-term success. By doing so, coaches can help create an…