The ‘Join a club for your mental health’ message hit TV screens this month (June 2009), with a television advert developed by Mentally Healthy WA’s Act-Belong-Commit team in collaboration with the Department of Sport and Recreation (DSR).
12 June 2009
The television adverts are airing on Channel 7, Channel 9 and GWN, and feature celebrities Adrian Barich and Michael Thomson.
Act-Belong-Commit project officers are working with DSR offices across the state to improve access to sport and recreation clubs and promote participation.
People who participate in sports clubs and organised recreational activity enjoy better mental health, are more alert and more resilient against the stresses of modern living. Their participation also helps to make their communities stronger, healthier, happier and safer places to live.
"Joining a sport and recreation club is a great way to act, belong and commit. There are so many opportunities - whether you are playing netball, umpiring footy, volunteering at the local surf club or helping out at in the canteen, you can enjoy the mental health benefits of being involved," Act-Belong-Commit Campaign Manager Amberlee Laws said.
Getting involved in a sport and recreation club provides a forum to meet new people, form friendships and satisfies our biological need to belong. Participation in sport and recreation enables us to challenge ourselves, learn new skills, and perhaps, exhibit personal strengths and talents. These things all help us to keep mentally healthy.
If you are looking for a sport or recreation club in your community, check out the ‘Find a club' tool on the DSR website.
