Think of this as your team sheet for your mind, where we look back at last month’s action, share the top plays, and spotlight the resources and support that help keep our mental game strong.

November was a busy month on the mental fitness front, and we’ve teamed up with our partners at JAAQ to bring you the stats, top questions, and new conversations you won’t want to miss.

What’s been on your minds?

Last month on JAAQ, our members were digging into some big topics. Here’s the top 5 most searched:

1. Burnout
2. Fitness
3. Stress
4. Elite Performance
5. Mindset

The most-watched video last month?

Katie Maycock on Burnout. In this conversation, Katie explains what burnout is, how to recognise its physical, mental, and emotional signs, how it differs from stress and pressure, strategies for preventing and recovering from it, and how both employees and organisations can support themselves and others to manage stress, maintain wellbeing, and create a healthier, more sustainable workplace.

Think of this as your team sheet for your mind, where we look back at last month’s action, share the top plays, and spotlight the resources and support that help keep our mental game strong.

October was a busy month on the mental fitness front, and we’ve teamed up with our partners at JAAQ to bring you the stats, top questions, and new conversations you won’t want to miss.

What’s been on your minds?

Last month on JAAQ, our members were digging into some big topics. Here’s the top 5 most searched:

1. Autism
2. Addiction
3. Depression
4. Stress
5. Elite Performance
   

The most-watched video last month?

Alex Manners on Living with Aspergers. You can ask Ryan all about who he is, what Asperger’s is, the common traits of Asperger’s, what causes it, and whether it can be prevented.

This World Mental Health Day, it’s a good reminder that mental health matters just as much as physical fitness. For men, talking about feelings or stress can be hard, but small moments of connection can make a real difference. That’s where the “dressing room effect” comes in – those chats after a game, weigh-ins, or even a quick WhatsApp message to your teammates.

James’ Journey: Finding Support on the Pitch

James, a member at MAN v FAT Norwich West, joined the club for more than just football.

“I wanted something that would help me get more active, lose weight, and build better habits, but also give me a reason to get out of the house and connect with other people who are on a similar journey. It’s as much about looking after my mind as it is about getting fitter physically.”

Before joining, he felt drained and stuck in a rut.

“Work was taking a lot out of me, and most days the only time I left the house was to go to work. That routine started to take a toll on my motivation and mood. I knew I needed something positive to focus on.”

How the Dressing Room Effect Works

The magic happens in those small, casual moments. Checking in, sharing a laugh, or even venting a bit can make a real difference. It can:

• Reduce stress and feelings of isolation

• Build stronger connections with your team

• Keep motivation and confidence up

James noticed this early on:

“Even on weeks when nothing else is going right, just talking about it after the match helps. The chats give me a chance to check in with the lads, share a laugh, and know that everyone’s going through something similar.”

He also recalls a moment that stuck with him:

“There was one week when I’d had a tough time personally and didn’t really feel up for it. After the match, a couple of the lads just asked how I was doing and we ended up having a proper chat. It wasn’t anything huge, but that bit of support made a massive difference — it reminded me that I wasn’t on my own.”

Small Steps You Can Take

You don’t have to be a mental health expert to support yourself or your teammates. On World Mental Health Day, consider:

• Asking a mate how their week’s been, not just how their game went

• Sharing a little about your own week first – it can help others open up

• Making post-match chats or weigh-ins a regular check-in

• Keeping the conversation going midweek with a quick message or bit of banter

James has noticed a real change in his mental wellbeing:

“Being surrounded by like-minded people who understand what you’re going through makes a huge difference. The encouragement from teammates has really boosted my confidence, both on and off the pitch.”

Beyond Self-Help: Where to Get Support

While small chats with teammates can help, sometimes you need more support than self-help or banter can give and that’s completely normal. There are organisations and resources that can help with mental health, whether it’s dealing with stress, anxiety, low mood, or just needing someone to listen.

• JAAQ – Real conversations about mental health from athletes and men, covering common issues and practical advice.

• Mind – Guidance on mental health problems, local services, and coping strategies.

• Samaritans – Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) – Confidential support if you need someone to talk to.

• NHS Mental Health Helpline – Call 111 (select option 2) for urgent support.

James reflects on the importance of reaching out:

“There’s no weakness in asking for help. Sometimes talking to your mates isn’t enough, and using a service like JAAQ or just picking up the phone to someone you trust can be the start of real change.”

You don’t have to be in crisis to reach out. Even checking in with a service, reading advice, or making a call can give you new ways to manage stress and keep your mental health on track.

The Big Message

This World Mental Health Day, remember that small conversations can make a big difference. Whether it’s a chat after a match, a weigh-in check-in, or a message to a teammate, it all counts. James’ journey shows that even little moments of connection can help you feel supported and less alone.

Head to JAAQ to explore honest conversations about mental health and how to look after your mind.

At MAN v FAT Rugby, we talk a lot about tries – the ones you smash on the field and the ones you set for your health.

But this week, as we mark Men’s Mental Health Week, it’s time to talk about keeping your head in the game.

Let’s be honest – being a bloke can be tough. We’re told to just get on with it, keep quiet, and “man up.” But behind the banter and tackles, many of us carry stuff we don’t talk about. Anxiety. Loneliness. Stress. The pressure to perform both on and off the pitch. And far too many men suffer in silence.

That’s why clubs like MAN v FAT Rugby matter. This isn’t just about dropping weight or making tries – it’s about belonging. That 30 minutes you spend on the rugby field each week is more than just a game – it’s a lifeline. It’s the laughs in the changing room, the knowing nods after a tough day, and the teammates checking in long after the final whistle.

If you’re struggling, or just feeling a bit off, you’re not alone. Every MAN v FAT Rugby club is full of blokes who’ve been through their own battles and come out stronger – together.

And here’s another tool in your corner: JAAQ – Just Ask A Question. As a MAN v FAT member, you have free access to this fantastic mental health platform. Whether you’ve got questions about anxiety, need advice on managing stress, or just want support at 2am – JAAQ is there. Confidential, expert-led, and available 24/7. No judgment. No nonsense. Visit https://manvfat.jaaq.org/ and start talking.

So, here’s the challenge this week:

Speak up.

Whether it’s to your mates, your coach, or someone on your team – start the conversation. It doesn’t have to be deep. Even a simple “How are you really doing, mate?” can open a door.

Check in.

That bloke who’s gone quiet in the group chat? Drop him a message. Ask if he’s OK. Invite him for a coffee, a walk, or a catch-up after training. Sometimes, just knowing someone cares is all it takes.

Use your tools.

Remember, you’ve got JAAQ in your back pocket. Use it. Share it. Recommend it to your teammates. It could be a game-changer.

Move your body, clear your head.

If the week’s been heavy, get yourself out for a walk, a bike ride, or even some extra rugby drills. Movement helps. Fresh air helps. Rugby helps.

Be the teammate you needed.

Think about what you’d want from your team if you were struggling. Then be that person – even if it’s just for one bloke. That’s where real leadership lives.

Here’s the truth: strong men talk. And even stronger ones listen.

This Men’s Mental Health Week, let’s show the power of a proper team – not just in scoring tries, but in showing up for each other, every single week.

Because at MAN v FAT Rugby, you’re never alone – not for one minute.

At MAN v FAT, we know that smashing your goals goes beyond the scales. Your mental health is just as important as your waistline, and we’re proud to have a community that talks honestly about the stuff that really matters.

So let’s take a minute for a Mental Health Monday check-in.

What’s been on your minds?

Last month on JAAQ, our members were digging into some big topics. Here’s the top 5 most searched:

1. Depression
2. Addiction
3. Stress
4. Bupa Clinicians
5. Sleep

It’s no surprise really, life throws a lot at us, and trying to juggle family, work, health, and everything in between can get overwhelming. If you’ve been feeling the pressure, know this: you’re not alone, and there’s help out there.

The most-watched video last month?

Katie Maycock on Burnout. A must-watch if you’re feeling fried, drained, or like you’re running on fumes.