STATE of Mind will take over Super League for Round 25 to raise awareness of mental health issues, tackle stigma and signpost support to rugby league players and fans who do not access help.
The themed round kicks-off in front of the Sky Sports TV cameras on Thursday August 15, when Warrington Wolves host Widnes Vikings before Leeds Rhinos take on Hull Kingston Rovers 24 hours later.
Then on Sunday August 18, Wakefield Wildcats welcome St Helens in a match which will see both teams fight to keep their play-off hopes alive.
Situated outside the stadium on the Doncaster Road entrance will be the State of Mind marquee where fans will be able to interact and find out about the campaign.
“The State of Mind programme was established in 2011 with the aim of improving the mental fitness, wellbeing and working life of rugby league players and communities and we want you to belong to the State of Mind Family,” said Phil Cooper, State of Mind Programme Leader.
“Whoever you support, you can join the State of Mind Family and be part of this amazing, award-winning movement.
“Show your support come and say hello to a volunteer at games, take a mental fitness card and wear our tee-shirt.”
Now in its third year, State of Mind explores and promotes initiatives relating to suicide prevention by targeting groups to deliver a range of awareness raising options focusing on mental fitness and resilience.
Almost 1000 players, coaches and support staff from Super League and the Championships, the three professional leagues in the UK, have attended State of Mind sessions, with 95% of those attending never having had mental health training before.
Sessions continue to be run at Super League clubs in particular, most recently at Huddersfield and St Helens, focusing on mental fitness to ensure people can manage the ups and downs of life effectively and encourage people to access support if it is needed.
More information can be found on the website www.stateofmindrugby.com or on Twitter @SOMRugbyLeague
