We asked Jaz, (an excellent rower and senior ladies south coast championship winner in the single sculls) about her experience with sport and mental health.
She was very open and honest about her own personal struggles and the way sport has helped. Take a look below:
Hi, my name is Jaz, and I'm 18 years old.
I've been a rower for 5 years and before that I was a swimmer and cross country runner. Throughout all of my competitive sporting experience I have had 2 platelet disorders that impact my day-to-day functioning, my energy and my mental health. For me, I started rowing to improve my declining mental health, as a teenager struggling with chronic and changeable illnesses, doing a sport that I enjoy has changed me greatly for the better as the endorphins and wonderful people I have met continually help every problem feel a little bit smaller.
I think that the sport itself can influence mental health as well, and is only amplified by the people in that setting, for me I know that I'm much happier and more motivated as a rower than I ever was as a swimmer or runner, so it really matters what sport you pick for you. My final point is that mental and physical health go hand in hand and sport can be a life saver during difficult times.
Jaz is not only a very talented rower but also an exceptional team mate. Thank you to Jaz for being open and honest about her experience as an athlete and highlighting the link between mental health and sport. We look forward to supporting her on her journey and collaborating with her in the future!
Thank you for being a part of the change and breaking the stigma.
'When its tough, Pull together'
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