#TalkMore
ThanFootball

Our team talk to the nation...

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It takes teamwork to start a conversation and #TalkMoreThanFootball

2 in 3 football fans have struggled with their mental health

#TalkMoreThanFootball is inspired by the power and impact of a football team talk. In collaboration with Chelsea FC and Samaritans, Three are encouraging football fans of all ages to talk more about their wellbeing and mental health.

For fans, talking about football is easy. When it comes to talking about their mental health, it’s much harder. 2 in 3 (67%) football fans have struggled with their mental health, while 1 in 3 have never spoken to anyone about it.

But the issue runs deeper than simply spotting when someone is struggling – people also don’t know how to take the first steps towards starting the conversation, or how to reach out.

94% of football fans admit they don’t talk about their mental health with the friends they play or watch sport with. A further 2 in 3 (65%) would like to know how to broach the subject and 62% would like a prompt to talk about it more regularly.

Our #TalkMoreThanFootball team talk serves as a poignant reminder to reach out to a mate and start that conversation. 

Training room

Hear from Vinnie Jones as he takes you through his mental health playbook. Learn simple tactics and skills on how to open up about your mental health and support those struggling around you.

Drill 1: Self-Subbed 

Drill 2: 1-2-1 Formation 

Drill 3: Sideline Yourself 

Drill 4: Assist Maker 

Support Samaritans

Every 90 minutes – the length of a football match – someone in the UK and Ireland dies by suicide. But talking saves lives and Samaritans’ volunteers are there for anyone struggling to cope, day or night. You can help Samaritans continue to be there for anyone who is going through a difficult time.

Donating £10 could help answer a call that could save a life.

Call 116 123

If you’re going through a tough time, you can call Samaritans free any time from any phone.

"Shame can be a huge barrier when it comes to mental health, particularly for men of my generation, as we just didn't talk about these things. That's why being open with my son about mental health is really important. We have a very open relationship and it's important that my son knows that he can speak to me about his feelings."

Ian - Samaritans caller

"The most valuable thing that i learnt in the training about the service us that my job is to sit with that person. If they are in a dark place, I don't look down at them, or try to dig a way out for them, I simply sit beside them and see the world through their eyes. Listening is such a powerful tool."

Sophie - previously called Samaritans and is now a Samaritans volunteer