Alberta Artistic Swimming - Mental Health Awareness, Training, and Support

In response to the challenges posed by the pandemic, Alberta Artistic Swimming (AAS) prioritized the mental health of athletes, coaches, and individuals involved in the sport. Utilizing the Safe & Welcoming Grant, AAS implemented various initiatives aimed at promoting mental health, increasing awareness, and providing resources on topics such as mindfulness and concussions.

Key Initiatives:

1. Mental Health First Aid Courses: Offered mental health first aid courses to equip participants with the knowledge and skills to address mental health challenges effectively.
2. Mindfulness Programs: Implemented mindfulness programs to enhance well-being and promote mental health among athletes and coaches.
3. Concussion Panel with Experts: Organized a panel featuring concussion subject matter experts to raise awareness and provide insights into the importance of addressing concussions.
4. Mental Health Awareness Guide: Developed a comprehensive mental health awareness guide to serve as a valuable resource for athletes, coaches, and parents.
5. Website Resources: Enhanced resources on the organization's website, ensuring accessibility to information related to mental health, mindfulness, and concussions.

The project aimed to achieve an increase in knowledge regarding the importance of mental health, self-care practices, and factors affecting mental well-being, including concussions and mindfulness. Feedback received at the conclusion of the program exceeded expectations, with coaches, athletes, and parents expressing satisfaction and reporting a positive impact on their understanding of mental health.

Impact and Future Outlook:

• Increased Club Initiatives: The project has spurred an increase in clubs taking their own mental health initiatives, showcasing a cascading effect within the organization.
• Emphasis on Concussion Management: AAS has observed a heightened emphasis on treating concussions seriously, with a focus on proper healing and reporting within the organization and member clubs.
• Positive Organizational Impact: The grant has had a substantial positive impact on the organization, prioritizing mental health and contributing to a safer and more welcoming sports environment.
• Future Sustainability: The lasting impact is evident in the continued prioritization of mental health and concussions by member clubs. AAS aims to sustain and further grow the knowledge base initiated by the project, fostering ongoing conversations and growth.