As women’s sport continues to grow in prominence, Werribee Rotary are making sure that the mental health of female athletes isn’t forgotten.
Next month the club will host its inaugural mental health seminar for girls, with a particular focus on the well-being of those competing in sport.
Open to girls from 15 to 20 years old, the free seminar will be held at Mackillop College in Werribee on August 9 and will feature presentations from female athletes as well as an information session.
Seminar coordinator and Werribee Rotary member, Peter Sandlant, said the idea came about following feedback on previous mental health seminars the club had run.
“They (girls) were saying that they had issues which were related to females and were different to those faced by the boys” said Mr Sandland who referenced body image, eating habits and self-esteem as mental health issues that were more common in women’s sport.
He said the aim of the seminar was to help female athletes help themselves.
“We’re hoping that the seminars will give them the knowledge and support avenues to be able to get them through difficult times.”
Mr Sandlandt said local sports clubs had expressed concern to Werribee Rotary about the mental health problems faced by their female athletes and after holding a series of mental health seminars with a more general outlook, one focussed on women and girls was needed.
“There’s certainly a demand for it” he said.
Parents and non-athletes are also encouraged to attend, with bookings closing on August 2.
For more information, contact Peter Sandlant on 0416 974 189.
