World Vision Lanka supports run to empower youth in North
In an effort to promote the mental well-being of children in the North through sports, World Vision Lanka launched ‘Every Mind Matters’ a run aimed at raising awareness and funds to provide schools and youth clubs in the North with sports equipment.
Recently it launched its second phase with its former staff and a champion for mental health, Subhashi (Subi) Nanayakkara completing an 80km marathon sporting challenge. The marathon launched from Ella, covered a distance of 80km to Balangoda. Despite the strenuous challenge, Subi, was able to champion the marathon with the support of World Vision Lanka colleagues and loved ones. The discipline and training that motivated Subi to complete the rigorous challenge stood as a testament to how sports help overcome mental challenges.
Sharing her intentions Subi said, “EMM campaign hopes to improve mental wellbeing for hundreds of children through sports. We initiated this campaign last year in Kilinochchi and provided football, volleyball, cricket and basketball equipment and training. We want to extend this campaign further to other areas in the North so that children can take part in tournaments as well.”
Ongoing research studies carried out in the area by World Vision Lanka revealed that an alarming number of children suffer from depleting mental health issues, and as a result, are highly vulnerable to drug and other types of abuse. Moreover, they are highly affected by destitution.
National Institute of Mental Health, Psychologist Dr. Kavinda de Silva, sharing his expertise said, sports are essential for physical health as well as mental health. He said sports reduce stress hormones and lower mental fatigue. Furthermore, hormones such as endorphins and serotonin that stimulate happiness increase in your blood flow due to physical activity. Increased level of strength and stamina also contributes towards the feel-good mentality, he added.
These natural and healthy hormonal changes help one acquire a healthy, happy, and positive outlook on the environment, especially where a child lives.
Elaborating on the importance of sports for youth who are vulnerable to drug abuse, he said, the dopamine drive that one gets from addictions can be eliminated via sports.
Acknowledging the imperatives of raising awareness of mental well-being through sports, World Vision Lanka is committed and aspires to support further and enhance the overall well-being of youth and children in the North.
Published in: Daily News Sports