The 10th October is World Mental Health Day, with the overall objective of World Mental Health Day to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health. Bracknell RFC has signed up with the Mental Health Charity LOOSEHEADZ to tackle the stigma around poor mental health in rugby and through LOOSEHEADZ provide a safe space for the Bracknell RFC community to link in to with access to a range of free Mental Health resources, Rugby-specific mental health training programme designed for the rugby community, by the rugby community, wellbeing check-ins and support from LOOSEHEADZ.

Bracknell RFC now has a LOOSEHEADZ Mental Wellbeing Champion; Sharon McMillan who can be contacted via mentalhealth@bracknellrugbyclub.com and a new Mental Health and Wellbeing Committee which has been set up to help support the wellbeing of everyone within the Bracknell RFC rugby community; whether it's players, coaches, referees, supporters or volunteers.

How can you get involved:

• Sign up, register and become a member of LOOSEHEADZ and be part of their online community hub.
• Complete the new online LOOSEHEADZ: Introduction to Mental Health Awareness Course available on the England Rugby Learning mobile-first platform
• https://www.englandrugby.com/run/player-welfare/mental-wellbeing
• Lets us know if you would be interested in joining the Bracknell RFC Mental Health & Wellbeing Committee as a rep for the Minis, Juniors, Academy, Seniors and Girls / Ladies

Further Support:
The Samaritans offer emotional support 24 hours a day – in full confidence. And can be contacted by phone on 116 123 or by email, letter or self-help app.

SHOUT Crisis Text Line: For support in a crisis, Text Shout to 85258. If you’re experiencing a personal crisis, are unable to cope and need support. Shout can help with urgent issues such as: Suicidal thoughts, Abuse or assault, Self-harm, Bullying and Relationship challenges

YoungMinds offers information and support to young people about their mental health and helps parents and carers to support the young people in their lives. They have a website and helpline available.

BEAT is the UK’s eating disorder charity, its mission is to end the pain and suffering caused by eating disorders.

There are NHS self-referral talking therapy resources available online in some health boards, I APT spelt I A P T in England and Silver Cloud in Wales.

Together we are building a global community of people united around a shared vision to #TackleTheStigma that surrounds mental health.