“Do you think you’re working too hard Dad?” The question stopped me in my tracks.
I was in Lisbon with my son Harry on a weekend away together and out of the blue, with that single question he had unwittingly punctured my armour of self-protection.
Hearing myself reply: “I don’t know how to relax any more” made me realise that perhaps something was wrong.
I’d been the CEO of the British Athletes Commission for over five years and, unbeknown to me over that time, I had been “subjected” to vicarious trauma while offering advice, support and guidance to world class athletes from over 40 sports; often when they were anxious, stressed or suffering from a mental illness.
That weekend Harry and I talked about the pressure I was under and my sense of isolation in my role and how it had led to a feeling that my work wasn’t valued by the system I worked in – even though it was hugely valued by the athletes I worked with.
Harry’s question not only triggered our conversation but also the start of my journey back towards better mental health.
It’s good to talk – properly – to people you trust and about the things that really matter.
Keeping people engaged and active is important to DOCIAsport. Findmykit.com offer a sustainable solution to reuniting people with lost kit and possessions. This is important to protect both the environment and family budgets – especially in a cost of living crisis.
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When an item is found it can be scanned by a vetted member of their network, and an instant email/sms notification is delivered to the registered owner, avoiding the cost and inconvenience of replacing lost items.
