We’re equipping young people with the knowledge, coping skills, and resiliency for improved mental health throughout adolescence and into adulthood
A Global Crisis
Globally, poor mental health is the most critical health issue facing young people. In addition, poor mental health is closely linked to other important health risks, such as HIV, teen pregnancy, and gender-based violence.
#1Globally, anxiety and depression is the #1 cause of disability for adolescents
90%In sub-Saharan Africa, where the problem is even worse, more than 90% of young people in need of mental health services will never receive them
4-10xYoung people with mental health challenges are 4-10x more at risk of acquiring HIV
2xAdolescent girls with poor mental health are 2x more likely to become pregnant and drop out of school
Since three-quarters of adult mental health conditions surface by age 24, adolescence is the key window of opportunity to promote good mental health and treat disease before conditions progress into adulthood and lead to more severe consequences
Our Solution
Grassroot Soccer is improving the mental health and well-being of young people in communities at heightened risk of poor mental health, and with limited access to information and services. Our model, based on input from world-leading mental health professionals and over 20 years of experience working with adolescents, improves young people’s mental health and well-being through a resilient mind, healthy body, and strong support network.
Program Highlight: Building MindSKILLZ for a Healthy Future
MindSKILLZ, Grassroot Soccer’s signature mental health prevention and promotion program, is designed to improve the mental health of all young people: to help those who are currently suffering with depression and anxiety, as well as preventing others from experiencing poor mental health in the future.
Employing a positive, strengths-based approach, MindSKILLZ uses soccer language, metaphors, and activities to engage young people and draw connections to mental health. MindSKILLZ fills a critical care gap in mental health by training non-specialists (Coaches) to work with young people and improve their mental health awareness, knowledge, coping skills, and resilience. In addition, MindSKILLZ reduces stigma and harmful misconceptions about mental health, which are significant barriers for young people who need support or care.
Our Impact
We’re reducing depressive symptoms, improving mental health knowledge and care-seeking behavior, and reducing mental health stigma among adolescents.
47%reduction in the number of adolescents with clinical depression symptoms
39%increase in adolescent’s mental health knowledge
53%increase in mental health care-seeking behaviors
I have the power to control my emotions, no matter the situation, and it’s all because of MindSKILLZ.
