Slavia dedicates January to mental health awareness.

16.1.2024, Klub

January dedicates itself to mental health awareness at Slavia. In collaboration with experts from the National Institute of Mental Health, the club focuses on caring for mental well-being. Not only does Slavia dedicate the entire month to mental health, but it also commits to ongoing education and awareness about the seriousness of this often overlooked issue. Leveraging the expertise of mental health professionals, the club aims to highlight the significance of mental health and utilize Slavia´s brand influence for community well-being—from the youngest academy players to the oldest team members. Mental health becomes a priority in Slavia´s CSR activities at the beginning of the year.

"We approach mental health support activities within the ´Beyond the Pitch´ strategy with great humility and special care. Despite our partnerships with top sports psychologists, we acknowledge that we are not full-fledged experts. Hence, we´ve partnered with experts from the National Institute of Mental Health to share their proven methods and current findings for better mental well-being not only within the club but also in our surrounding community," explains Michaela Schejbalová, CSR Manager at SK Slavia Prague.

Whom are they paying increased attention to? Alongside raising awareness of mental health issues, Slavia will organize support activities for children, youth, parents, employees, seniors, and the general public.

Children and Youth

In collaboration with Men´s Factor, a discussion will be held for over 350 elementary school students in Prague, addressing the topic of bullying—how to prevent it, face it, and emphasize the harm it causes to both the body and soul. The roles of authorities in children´s lives, whether parents, teachers, or coaches, will be highlighted, drawing on the experience of Martin Macháček, a sports psychologist from Slavia´s youth academy.

"With parents, we aim to initiate a dialogue from the very beginning, emphasizing the importance of communication and support for the child, which should not be contingent on performance or results but remain consistent. A child needs to feel certainty and a sense of security," says Macháček in one episode of the Total Podcast.

Seniors

Long-term support for the elderly continues, with a focus on both physical and mental health. Utilizing sports, Slavia will support the well-being and fitness of seniors through practical workshops on chair exercises and Nordic walking, engaging both body and mind. Lectures such as "How to Be Actively Healthy" and "Healthy Lifestyle 70+" are also.

Work Collective

January activities will also address the physical and mental health of Slavia´s employees—identifying work-related risk factors and promoting mental hygiene. Those who ensure the daily functioning of the club deserve care and attention.

And what can you do together with the National Institute of Mental Health right now?*