Tactics for checking in on your loved ones’ mental health

The Premier League is encouraging fans to check in on each other’s wellbeing through "Inside Matters’". 

Football can connect people and start conversations, and a chat about your team’s performance can help to spark deeper interactions. Even just a quick catch-up can make a difference, as shown by players and managers across the Premier League recently. 

"Inside Matters" branding was visible at Premier League matches across the last weekend, ahead of UK Mental Health Awareness Week from 12-18 May.

The theme for this year is community. Below, insight and practical advice from Mental Health Innovations provides guidance on creating supportive spaces for you and your loved ones: fellow fans, mates and family. 

Why safe and supportive communities are important 

Being part of wider communities – be that at football or elsewhere – is important for our mental wellbeing. Here are some reasons why. 

• • Purpose: Communities give us meaningful roles, whether through helping others or working toward a shared goal. Feeling useful and appreciated boosts confidence and mental wellbeing 

  • Reduced stress and anxiety: Knowing you have people who care about you makes challenges feel more manageable, and offers comfort during more challenging times 

  • Stronger social connections: Positive communities encourage open communication and support, reducing loneliness and building lasting relationships 

  • Improved self-esteem: When we’re encouraged to grow, learn and achieve personal goals, our confidence and self-worth naturally increase 

  • Support and safety: A reliable support system makes tough situations feel less overwhelming and ensures that help is always available 

  • Increased happiness: Feeling connected and a part of others’ lives can bring fulfilment and satisfaction 

How to build connections with others 

Starting conversations and forming genuine connections can feel daunting, but simple steps can make a big difference. Whether you’re meeting someone new or strengthening an existing relationship, here are some simple conversation starters: 

• • Introduce yourself: A warm intro helps break the ice and shows you’re open to getting to know someone 

• • Ask about them: People enjoy sharing their experiences. Asking about their hobbies, background or interests can help to create a dialogue 

• • Connect over a shared experience: Finding common ground helps establish trust and makes conversations feel more natural 

• • Give a genuine compliment: Noticing and appreciating something about someone can brighten their day and build rapport 

• • Offer or ask for help: Offering assistance shows kindness, while asking for help fosters trust and connection 

  • Ask for their opinion: Engaging people in discussions about topics they care about makes conversations more enjoyable 

  • Comment on the weather: A simple icebreaker that can lead to deeper discussions 

Create a supportive community 

A supportive community nurtures mental wellbeing and ensures everyone feels included and valued. Here are some practical ways to build a mentally healthy space, whether you’re at football, work or anywhere you connect with others. 

• • Raise awareness: Educating people about mental health reduces stigma and encourages open conversations 

• • Encourage open discussions: Safe spaces where people can talk about their mental health foster trust and understanding 

• • Be supportive: A compassionate environment reduces isolation and creates a sense of belonging 

• • Build resilience: Using and sharing stress management techniques can help people handle challenges 

• • Promote self-care: Activities like exercise, healthy eating and relaxation all contribute to overall wellbeing 

• • Embrace diversity and inclusivity: A welcoming community ensures that everyone, regardless of background, feels valued and supported 

Working together with 'Shout' 

To help fans access professional support, the Premier League is collaborating with Shout, a free, confidential 24/7 text support service for anyone in the UK who is struggling with their mental health, run by the charity Mental Health Innovations. 

Fans can text "SHOUT" to 85258 to receive round-the-clock support from trained volunteers, supervised and supported in real time by an expert clinical team. 

Through the partnership, the League is providing funding for Shout’s helpline services over the weekend and during Mental Health Awareness Week.