Fore Your Mental Health: How Golf Can Improve Your Well-Being
Golf can be an important aspect to help improve an individual’s mental health. In this blog post, we explore several ways in which golf can improve your well-being.
Yesterday was World Mental Health Day, a day to raise awareness of mental health problems. As Mind state the amount of people that are aware of the condition is increasing. However, individuals are struggling to speak out and get the right support.
The number one reason golfers golf is to support their “mental well-being”
Golf.com, 2020
We at Abergele Golf Club understand how important golf is on an individual’s mental health. With members that are widows, that feel lonely or live alone, our Club can be the only place where they can socialise. Therefore, we wanted to highlight the benefits the sport has on everyone’s mental health.
Reducing Stress and Anxiety
Golf is a great sport than can help to reduce stress and anxiety levels. It offers a chance to escape from the pressures of daily life and provides a mental break from the stresses of work and home life. PGA Professional, Rory McIlroy, says, “Golf is a great way to de-stress, and being outdoors on a beautiful golf course can help you forget about your problems and find some peace of mind.”
95% of golfers say playing golf is good for mental health
Golf Care – May 2023
Reduces Feelings of Isolation
The game also promotes socialisation and reduce feelings of isolation. Golfers often play in groups, providing an opportunity to connect with others and build social connections. Social support has been linked to improved mental health, while social isolation has been linked to increased risk of depression and anxiety. Golf can also be a great way to meet new people and make new friends, whether it be at the local course or on a golf trip.
Social interaction is important to prevent various mental health issues, according to psychiatrist DR Sheenie Ambardar. She suggests:
“As people get older, they tend to get more socially isolated, which can increase their chances for developing depression, anxiety and cognitive decline. Golf provides a great avenue to combat these risks because it’s usually played around other people, thus offering a natural opportunity for camaraderie and human contact – which we know improves mental health.”
Dr Ambadar in Golf.Com Mental Benefits of Playing Golf post
Improves Self-Confidence
Golf can also help to improve one’s self-confidence. It is a sport that requires a great deal of practice and dedication, and the more time you spend on the course, the more confident you become in your abilities. The feeling of hitting a great shot or sinking a long putt can give you a sense of pride and accomplishment, which can translate into other areas of your life.
Golf Has a Positive Impact
Golf can have a positive impact on mental health. According to Golf Care, golfers state that the sport improves their mental health as they are spending time outside, completing an activity they enjoy and because they are able to do something physical to take their mind off their stresses.
The sport offers a chance to escape from the stresses of daily life, improves self-confidence, social skills, and can be a great form of physical exercise. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced golfer, there are many benefits to be gained from spending time on the course.
So, if you’re looking for a fun and interesting way to improve your mental health, why not give golf a try? We have a range of memberships available and the details can be found by clicking here. Furthermore, you can always contact our office team on 01745 824034 option 3. They are always happy to help!
