On World Mental Health Day, observed every year on 10 October, the IWGA is highlighting the importance of supporting athletes not only in their physical performance, but also in their mental well-being. The World Health Organization (WHO) uses this day to raise awareness of mental health issues worldwide and to encourage action in support of mental health.
In 2026, the WHO is focusing on the theme “Lived experiences heard: real voices, real change”, emphasising the importance of listening to people with lived experience and ensuring their voices help shape the support and services available to them.
For athletes, the pressures associated with high-level competition can extend well beyond the field of play. Training, injury, competition, expectations, setbacks and the demands of life in elite sport can all affect mental well-being. Creating an environment in which athletes feel able to speak openly, seek support and know that they are not alone is therefore an important part of building a healthier sporting community.
“Mental health matters” is the message behind the IWGA’s ongoing social media campaign, which gives athletes a platform to share their personal experiences and encourage others to speak about mental health.
Through a dedicated Mental Health Matters playlist [LINK] on the IWGA’s YouTube channel, athletes from The World Games community share their stories, challenges and advice – helping to break the stigma around mental health and reminding others that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Their voices are an important part of the conversation.
The campaign brings together a growing collection of athlete testimonies covering different experiences of mental health and well-being. By sharing their own journeys, athletes help create greater awareness and encourage a more open and supportive sporting environment.
The IWGA is committed to continuing this conversation and to putting athletes at the heart of its work. Mental health and well-being are an integral part of creating a positive athlete experience at The World Games, alongside safe, inclusive and respectful sporting environments.
To mark World Mental Health Day, IWGA CEO Constance Terrier also shares a message highlighting the importance of mental health in sport and encouraging athletes and everyone within the sporting community to keep the conversation going.