Mental Health Awareness, Tackling Stigmas & Athlete Wellbeing | Lloyd Ashley

Today I am joined by Lloyd Ashley - a mental health awareness advocate, an accredited first aid for mental health instructor, lead for mental health and wellbeing for the Welsh Rugby Players Association. He is also an ex-professional rugby player,  representing both the Ospreys and Scarlets over a 10 year career. Our conversation today delves into  the value of facilitating conversation around mental health, normalizing discussions, and emphasizing the necessity of undertaking a proactive approach, rather than reactive. We stress the need to eradicate stigmas, especially concerning men"s mental health, whilst highlighting the importance of community, togetherness, and a sense of belonging in providing essential social support. Lloyd provides insights into the world of athlete well-being, stressing the importance of viewing athletes as individuals with fundamental psychological needs and looking beyond their athletic labels. Athletes, like everyone else, face diverse stressors and pressures, therefore highlighting the need to investing in an athlete"s mental health and psychological well-being - both off and on the pitch  Find Lloyd: @livingwellwithlloydashley www.lwla.co.uk https://uk.linkedin.com/in/lloyd-ashley-living-well