Tackling stress, a strict sporting routine and social inclusion 

Bournemouth University is home to thousands of sports students, and every individual has their own story. 

Bailey Vanstone is the president of Badminton and oversees all members of the team. 

Having so many responsibilities can have its challenges and Vanstone explained some of the tricky experiences he has had not only whilst being the president, but also since starting university. 

He said: “Being the people person means I have a huge weight and sense of responsibility to make sure everyone on the team is okay and feels like they mean something to the rest of the team.” 

Juggling the stress and mental health of everyone has then gone on to Vanstone putting himself at the bottom of the priority list to then feeling like it may become a concern. 

“I have realised that my health is just as important as everybody else’s but still I feel it is my duty to look after everyone as the president.” 

Vanstone then went on to speak very highly of Martin Wells, who oversees sport at the university. 

Wells is also the wellness officer who Vanstone described as always making him feel like he is heard. 

Robin Kidd is another athlete on the badminton team who also described his praise towards the rest of the team, always making him feel included and boosting his mental health when he feels particularly low. 

“You can be physically fit but be miserable and no one could know because on the outside you seem on top of your game”, Kidd said. 

“Having badminton gives you a sense of belonging to a team of players and being able to enjoy the sport I love with my mates really makes my day and relieves me of any stress I have.” 

This is a clear message for anyone who feels like they have nothing to belong to.  

It doesn’t need to be badminton either, as Leo Bartlett who plays football locally in Christchurch described. 

“I look forward to the weekend, not just because I don’t have to work but because of the mental boost that playing football with my mates gives me on a Sunday.” 

If you feel the need to speak to someone, you can always call the NHS mental health hotline at 111.