Promoting wellbeing

Young People’s Sport Panel members Louis Gallagher and Molly Sands are encouraging fellow Perth and Kinross residents to stay active to help their mental wellbeing while restrictions remain in place across Scotland.

Louis and Molly, both from the Perth area, have been members of sportscotland’s Young People’s Sport Panel (YPSP) since November.

During a challenging time for the sporting sector, mental health has featured prominently in the panel’s early discussions.

Louis is in sixth year at Perth Academy where he is also a cricket coach. He plays football for Scone Thistle and cricket for Perth Doo’cot Cricket Club.

He is encouraging people to find what works best for them and what they enjoy the most, even small amounts of gentle physical activity can be beneficial.

The 18 year-old said:“Physical activity is key to mental wellbeing. Keeping up a routine of walking and running has been really important to me during lockdown. It gets me out in the fresh air and gives me time to reset and get myself in a positive mindset.

“Keeping a regular routine is very important. Set yourself goals.”

Molly is in third year at Perth High School and, at 15, is one of the youngest panel members.

She plays hockey for Perthshire Hockey Club and swims with Fife Synchronised Swimming Club.

Molly added:“Building regular physical activity into your everyday routine has many positive effects on your mental wellbeing.

“It releases endorphins, which decrease stress and improve your overall mood. Regular exercise increases your self-esteem and confidence. Staying active is hugely beneficial for everyone, especially during these challenging times.”