On the latest episode of the Advantage Over podcast, we’re joined by Nick Marshall, active referee and organiser of Marshalling Men’s Minds – a community and support network for those with poor mental health.
As it’s Mental Health Awareness Week (in the UK at least) Nick joined me in the RefSquad facebook group where we talked about his refereeing and mental health journeys (one upwards, one less so..) and how he overcame it.
We talked about how to spot if you’re struggling, what triggers you (or your nearest and dearest) may see as well as how that manifests when you head onto the field.
We covered some ground around dealing with pressure on the pitch, and some tips on refocussing when you need to.
Nick talked briefly about the Dodger 7s team who are an invitational side made of those who have suffered from poor mental health, or have been around it. Do see what they’re up to.
Let’s talk
The key thing around the whole mental health issue is to talk. To anyone. But please do. We know that refereeing can appear to be a lonely place, but it really isn’t – there plenty of community around you and support if you need or want it.
Contact Nick
You can contact Nick via the Marshalling Men’s Minds website (or on Facebook) or you can head to mentalhealth.org to find local resources to where you live.
We do hope you enjoy the episode and take a few nuggets away to think about. Let us know below, what you thought!
#MentalHealthAwarenessWeek
