Mental health matters in focus
SAM Cummings, the Head of Mental Health at the English Institute of Sport, came to Edge Hill University to discuss the importance of mental health in elite sports and offer advice for students looking at a career in the field.
The English Institute of Sport is committed to offering outreach and support to over 40 sports throughout England, mainly focusing on elite sports and Olympic success.
Edge Hill supports students who wish to focus their studies on mental health in community and elite sport, and the University is partnered with several mental health programmes where students can gain valuable experience.
Sam discussed his extensive work with elite sportspeople, how athletes are supported throughout their journey and how heavily they rely on the mental health support to reach their goals.
Sam said: “It was excellent for me to be able to share our institution’s work with students from Edge Hill University. If you’re going to work in elite sport, mental health is vital.”
Giving advice about employability, Sam said: “Think about what a successful applicant looks like, where are the gaps and how you can upskill yourself and increase your strengths.”
Sam recommended students boost their skills through placements, employment, and volunteer work. Mental health first aid courses and programmes including Tackling the Blues, which is delivered by Edge Hill in association with Everton in the
Community and Tate Liverpool, allow students to experience working in an environment that mirrors their employment options.
Professor Andy Smith said: “It was great to hear from Sam and a real insight into the diverse types of roles that students can go into from the types of sports degrees we offer. It was very positive that he identified how the mental health awareness courses and professional development opportunities that our students have access to really help with employability.”
For more information on Edge Hill University’s Sport and Physical Activity Courses go to ‘Edge Hill Sport and Physical Activity Courses’, and for more information on Tackling the Blues go to ‘Tackling the Blues’ – both online at edgehill.ac.uk.