England’s Harry Winks has stated the importance of caring for our mental health in an interview with Micah Richards as part of the Football Association’s #footballsstayinghome campaign.
He urges people to freely share any problems they encounter while living under the worldwide lockdown, saying that transparency is key: “People have come out and said more about their problems, it’s important that everyone talks about it and it leads to a healthier lifestyle and mindset.”
Winks has been busy after restrictions, keeping Tottenham in line with regular Zoom sessions, and is fortunate enough to have a near support network of loved ones to stay in contact with:
“When you’re trapped in your house it can be quite difficult. I’m lucky I’ve got such a strong group of people around me – my friends, my family who I talk to every day, and it’s important that I stay in touch with them.
“I follow government guidelines, go for a daily walk every day as well, just to get out of the house, get some fresh air, a bit of exercise. But I’m lucky that I’ve got that close-knit family and friends around me.”
The 24-year-old admitted that not everyone finds it easy to address their mental health. “It’s important – especially as men, not just footballers,” he said. “We always trained never to really talk about things and get it off our chests but I think now everybody is more open about it.”
He has done well emphasizing the importance of mental health awareness in what is a difficult period in society.
