Ahead of Mental Health Awareness Week (15-21 May) new research commissioned by ping pong experts Bounce reveals that the public find sport and competing with friends among the most effective ways to boost their mental wellbeing. Bounce has also partnered with UK charity the Charlie Waller Trust and TV doctor Zoe Williams, who has shared her top wellbeing tips, including playing ping pong, in a bid to boost the nation’s mental health.
The survey of 2,000 adults, commissioned by Bounce, shows that 56% find sport a stress relief with 62% saying competing with friends can help them blow off steam. Spending time with friends gives those polled a sense of belonging (43%), empowers them with optimism (25%) and even validation (17%) in their day-to-day lives. Yet 53% of us aren’t spending as much time in social groups as we’d like, even though 72% get a noticeable boost in their happiness levels from doing so.
Over six in 10 (62%) feel activities such as ping pong, axe throwing or mini golf make a night out more fun and engaging than simply going out to eat or drink. More than four in 10 (41%) of those who use sports or games to reduce their stress believe focusing on one action enables them to ignore other things. For 34%, however, the joy is simply found in winding up friends when winning the game. Again, 40% responded they feel happier and more relaxed (39%) after a game with friends.
GP and TV presenter Dr Zoe Williams, commented: “Everyday life – the news, relationships, jobs, or a big life change can all take its toll on our mental wellbeing. That’s why it’s so important to make sure we all take time in our day to do something that benefits our mood. The research shows that connecting with friends through sport and games, especially those that encourage friendly competition and focus, is important for our wellbeing. A game of ping pong at Bounce is a great example of this and can have a very positive impact on our mental health.”
With more public awareness of mental health difficulties in recent years, the research also identified 66% of those aged 18-34 talk about their mental health more so now compared to five years ago. The research indicated that sports is a great way to boost wellbeing as more than half (57%) said they are good at focusing and concentrating when it comes to physical activity or a game.
Those with a lack of time for socialising blame busy schedules (40%), their friend spending too much time with a partner (15%), and even worrying about pestering their friends with arrangements (11%). Respondents missing out feel lonely (32%), disappointed (29%) and sad (27%) when they aren’t able to spend as much time with friends as they’d like. However, more than half feel good (25%) and motivated (43%) when they do socialise.
Dr Zoe added: “It’s so important for our physical and mental health to exercise and spend time with people we care about. Competitive games get you active, reduce your stress levels and are a great way to channel your focus and energy. A fast-paced game like ping pong requires immense concentration and focus, akin to the skills needed for mindfulness. It helps us improve mental clarity and also strengthen connections with those you’re playing with. Whether you win or lose, it’s a guaranteed game of fun!”
Toby Harris, CEO of State of Play Hospitality, operator of Bounce, which is supporting Charlie Waller Trust during Mental Health Awareness Week and beyond, said: “I was delighted that our research shows that whacking a ball with friends is a great way to relieve stress. Unlike those sports which are more of a solo act, there is a unique joy to ping pong generated by the connection between players. Your game, and enjoyment, is directly and physically linked to your opponent’s game – and it’s amazing how players surprise themselves with their skills. It’s simple, fun and makes you feel great – we all need to play more ping pong!”
Helen Franks, Corporate Partnership Manager from the Charlie Waller Trust said: “Connecting with friends and family over a game which is active and fun can be good for both your physical and mental health. And learning the skills to play a new game can boost your self-confidence and self-esteem. Being active, learning, and connecting with others are three of the ‘Five Steps to Mental Wellbeing’.”
Through the partnership with the Charlie Waller Trust, Bounce customers will be able to donate to the charity when booking a ping pong table during Mental Health Awareness Week (15- 21 May 2023). In addition, Bounce will bolster support for the mental health charity by donating 50p on the purchase of a new pizza from its Spring menu, coming in early June until September 2023, as well as via seasonal fundraisers.
Open seven days a week, Bounce takes care of your whole night out, offering food, drinks, games, tunes and more. Bounce’s squad of ‘Games Gurus’ are always on hand to amp the fun, lead tournaments, introduce new games and give out prizes for some playful competition.
Get your ping pong on and lose yourself in a high-speed game. Whether you’re a novice or master of the serve, ignite your competitive spirit and have a blast. Game on! https://www.bouncepingpong.com/.
Dr Zoe Williams’s Top Wellbeing Tips
Get active
Physical activity releases endorphins and other mood boosting chemicals in the brain. Whether it’s a brisk walk in the park or a quick ping pong game, physical activity and exercise reduce stress and anxiety, as well as boosting self-esteem.
2. Take breaks from technology
Swap the socials for serves and find the time to do activities that do not involve screens, work or social media. Taking breaks is key to improving well being and helping us stay grounded and not overwhelmed. Give yourself at least 10 minutes a day to step outside and breathe in some fresh air away from technology.
3. Meaningful connections
Spend time with friends, family, colleagues, or even find a new social group, as connecting with others and strengthening relationships can improve your mood.
4. Get into the competitive spirit
Socialising and getting into the competitive spirit is great for blowing off steam. And games like ping pong at Bounce are quick to set up and can avoid the organisational pain that comes with bigger team activities. Playing sports built on focus and concentration will increase cognitive awareness, mental alertness and get your heart rate up and blood pumping, which all have a very positive impact on your mental health.
5. Be kind to yourself
Being kind to yourself can help to reduce levels of anxiety and depression as well as improve your ability to cope with everyday life. It can also boost your self-esteem which in turn improves relationships with others and equips us to deal with new experiences.
6. Dedicate time to things you enjoy
Time spent on something you enjoy and prioritising your own needs helps reduce stress and boosts mood. It can even increase your productivity, empowering you to feel more motivated to get things done. Whether it’s engaging in creative activities, playing a sport or even just taking a relaxing bath, all of this can help your mental health.
7. Look after yourself
Getting enough sleep is important for your wellbeing and mental health, as it helps improve mood, energy and focus. It’s important to have a balanced diet to provide nutrients to the brain and a healthy gut also helps to optimise improve mood. to get the energy and focus you need for optimal mental health.
8. Mindfulness
Mindfulness involves practices that help you to feel present and in the moment, and this can reduce levels of stress and improve resilience. Being mindful can keep you calmer throughout the day, ways to practise this include techniques like meditation, breathing and yoga or simply just taking notice of the things you can see, hear, feel, smell and taste at any given moment. It helps us become more aware of our thoughts and feelings, instead of being overwhelmed by them. Stress is a part of life but learning coping mechanisms can reduce its impact on your mental health.
