Running in the shadows: Sports stars and invisible battle with mental health issues

On International Youth Day, the Ministry of Sports and Youth in Qatar, in collaboration with the Qatar Olympic Committee, hosted a youth session to explore the impact of sports on mental health among young people. This event, held under the theme "Different Contexts, Common Aspirations," aimed to highlight how sports can positively influence mental well-being, self-confidence, and social connections.

Fawaz Al Mesaifri, Director of the Youth Affairs Department at MSY, emphasized that this year's theme mirrors the global aspirations of young people to create a better future and maintain a balanced state of mind and body. He stressed that sports serve as a vital platform to unite young individuals and advance shared goals.

Al Mesaifri also revealed that the Ministry has initiated programs to cater to the needs of youth and enhance their quality of life, underscoring the importance of mental health as a core element in youth empowerment. Sports, he explained, have emerged as a powerful instrument for fostering psychological equilibrium and fostering positive growth.

Amina Al Meer, Head of the Local Cooperation Unit at QOC, revealed that the partnership between the Ministry and the Olympic Committee underscores a common vision of sports as a catalyst for community development and quality of life improvement. She highlighted QOC's ongoing efforts to strengthen ties with national entities, cultivate a sports culture, and increase youth involvement.

The strategic alliance between the Ministry and QOC is geared towards aligning their initiatives and executing programs that bolster young people, promote mental health awareness, advocate for healthy living, and collectively build a healthier, more cohesive society.