By Tafadzwa Chigandiwa
Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has launched a reach out campaign aimed at raising awareness on mental health issues.
The federation confirmed the new development through a video awareness campaign they shared on their twitter account on Monday.
This reach out campaign will see FIFA working together with World Health Organisation (WHO) and Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to teach people on how vital it is to notice symptoms of mental health challenges at an early stage.
The joint campaign comes at a time when WHO and FIFA signed a four-year collaboration to promote healthy lifestyles through football globally, back in 2019.
In launching #ReachOut campaign, FIFA President Gianni Infantino said, “This campaign is very important in raising awareness about mental health conditions and encouraging a conversation which could save a life.
“In FIFA’s Vision 2020-2023, we pledge our commitment to make football work for society, and I thank the players and Ms. Enke, who have contributed to this important initiative.
“Depression and anxiety affect rising numbers of people worldwide, and young people are among the most vulnerable. Having a conversation with family, friends, or a healthcare professional, can be key. FIFA is proud to launch this campaign, supported by WHO and ASEAN to encourage people to #ReachOut.”
WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus highlighted that they (WHO) are prepared to support FIFA’s initiative.
“WHO is delighted to support the #ReachOut campaign, spearheaded by FIFA, to encourage people to talk about their mental health.
“As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, it is as important as ever to look after our mental and physical health,” he said.
The campaign will feature some football legends such as Brazil’s former captain Cafu, former Spain player Luis Garcia, and former DR Congo forward Shabani Nonda, etc.
According to FIFPRO, depression affects more than 260 million people in the world while around half of all mental health conditions start by the age of 14.
FIFPRO’s statistics on depression further indicate that suicide is the fourth leading cause of death in young people aged 15-29 and that among active football players, 23 per cent report suffering from disturbed sleep, while nine per cent have reported depression and a further seven per cent, suffer from anxiety.
Moreover, FIFPRO added that among retired players, these figures increase, with 28% struggling to sleep and depression and anxiety affecting 13% and 11% respectively, said FIFA.
