Mental Health Awareness Week takes place here in the UK from 10-16 May, so we thought it would be a good time to again focus on mental health in football. We know that this is a topic that has an impact on a great many people, and this is why we have decided to participate in activities such as the FAW's 'We Wear the Same Shirt' campaign.

We recently discussed football and mental health with our team captain Michael Johnston. He believes that the recent increased focus on mental health within football should not hide the fact that it has been an important topic for quite some time:

"A lot has been said about mental health over the last couple of years but, it has always been an issue. People who seem to be the bubbly, happy person that everyone sees may not be that person when alone or at home. "

Johno also argued that Covid-19 has created significant additional challenges for a great many people:

"The routines of a lot of people have been destroyed by the pandemic and it puts into perspective the important roles we play, as players, in bringing that natural smile back onto faces. The return of football has been great for us all. Hopefully, with the restrictions being eased, we will get to see friendly faces again and the return of that togetherness we all feel."

Although intense rivalries, determination and the will to win sometimes mean that encounters on the pitch can at times appear uncompromising, our captain believes that those involved in football are keen to support each other when it comes to mental health. Indeed, he has a positive message for fans and players:

"Believe me when I say it’s good to talk, it really is. Don’t take that light chat for granted. I for one would always be willing to have that little chat with anybody if they need it and I know everyone within the footballing community will do so too. Always remember, it’s good to talk."

If you, or someone you know, is facing challenges concerning mental health please remember that support is available. The mental health charity Mind Cymru has a wealth of information about mental health and how to seek support on its website: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/.

Over the course of Mental Health Awareness Week, we'll be re-sharing some of our previous articles about football and mental health via social media so remember to like our page on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.