Game, Set, Mindset: Tennis and World Mental Health Day 🎾ðŸ§
Every year on World Mental Health Day, I'm reminded of how vital it is to look after our mental wellbeing, just as much as we care for our physical health. While mental health is something we all have every day of the year, October 10th offers a powerful opportunity to reflect, talk, and take action.
I’ve long believed in the power of activity, sport and exercise to support mental health and tennis, in particular, has a unique way of doing just that.
Why Tennis Supports Mental Health
Tennis isn’t just about winning points, it’s about connection, resilience, and personal growth. Here are just a few ways tennis can positively impact mental wellbeing:
1. It gets you moving Exercise is a proven mood-booster. Even a short session on court can help reduce stress, improve sleep, and lift your mood thanks to those all-important endorphins.
2. It’s social Whether you’re rallying with a friend or cheering on your teammates, tennis brings people together. That sense of community and shared purpose can be incredibly powerful in protecting against feelings of isolation.
3. It builds resilience Tennis is a mental game as much as a physical one. Learning to stay focused, manage pressure, and bounce back from setbacks on court helps build emotional resilience, skills that are just as important off the court too.
4. It creates a sense of achievement Setting goals, whether it’s mastering a new skill or playing your first match—helps build confidence and a sense of purpose.
Working with Appeti Tennis for Mental Health Day
This World Mental Health Day, I'm proud to be continuing my commitment to making tennis a space where everyone feels supported—not just physically, but emotionally too.
Appeti Tennis recognise the importance of mental health. This World Mental Health Day, we’re putting the spotlight on how tennis can be a powerful tool for emotional wellbeing. Whether it’s through the routine of weekly sessions, the encouragement of our coaches, or simply the joy of hitting a ball, we’ve seen first-hand how tennis can lift spirits, build confidence, and provide a much-needed outlet for stress. Alongside Appeti Tennis I am committed to creating a safe, welcoming environment where players of all ages feel supported, not just in their game, but in their mental health too.
Over the years, we’ve focussed on mental skills workshops for our players, created more inclusive spaces for children and adults of all abilities, including those who may find social situations challenging, and worked closely with schools to offer free tennis sessions that promote healthy, active lifestyles.
We’re also working on building a culture where it’s okay to talk about how we’re feeling—because whether you're a coach, a junior player, or a parent in the stands, your mental health matters.
We hope you’ll join us on court—not just for the rallies and the serves, but for the community, the joy, and the moments of calm that tennis can bring.