Muslim Sports Foundation (MSF) and Mind have reported on their nationwide survey exploring mental health among British Muslims.
They found:
- 78% agreed that mental health is a taboo subject in the Muslim community
- 91% agreed that sport / PA has a positive impact on mental wellbeing
- 15% would exercise when feeling overwhelmed
Proposed areas for action included Youth Engagement and Sports Programmes:
1. Sports as Therapy Initiatives: Co-design mental health focused sports and physical activity programmes that explicitly link physical wellbeing with mental health outcomes
2. Peer Support Networks: Foster peer mentorship among young people involved in sports, encouraging mental health discussions within these groups
June will also see the launch of the Mindful Sunnah Handbook, which highlights the connection between faith, physical activity, and mental wellbeing.
July will see a national Friday sermon (Khutbah) focused on the importance of sport and movement as tools for strengthening both mental and spiritual health.