Laylen

Laylen first came to Sport in Mind a couple of years ago after being referred by a friend. At the time, his anxiety could make it difficult to leave the house for months at a time.

Football gave him a way back out. Having played for most of his life, the sessions helped him reconnect with something he loved, while also building his fitness, confidence and routine.

Since joining, Laylen has come every week and says the sessions have helped him “massively” with his anxiety. For him, football is more than a game. It is a reason to get out, meet people, hear different stories and step beyond his comfort zone.

When he is playing, Laylen says he feels happy, proud and more like himself. His story is a reminder that taking action does not always have to mean a huge leap. Sometimes it starts with showing up, joining in and doing the thing that helps you feel alive again.