Why the Equestrian Mental Health Summit is Essential
The Equestrian Mental Health Summit 2024, hosted by Equitas, addresses the pressing need for mental health support within the equestrian community.
This need is underscored by the findings in The Equestrian Mental Health Booklet.
According to the data in "The Equestrian Mental Health Booklet," a staggering 88% of equestrians believe that more mental health support and resources are necessary at all levels.
The HAY Campaign when launched and supported by us, really emphasized the importance of creating safe spaces for discussions about mental health, recognising triggers unique to the equestrian industry, and providing strategies and tools to cope with these challenges.
In today’s world, mental health awareness is more critical than ever, and within the equestrian community, this need is particularly pronounced. The upcoming Equestrian Mental Health Summit is designed to address this need with tangible action, focused discussions, and practical solutions. This two-day event is not just a gathering; it’s a positive and potentially pivotal step toward change and suicide prevention in the equestrian industry.
Here’s why this summit is needed and why you should secure your tickets and supporting a cause THAT HAS TOUCHED ALL OF US!!!
There is NO ONE reading this that can say they don't know someone affected by mental health issues or a family or community affected by suicide. Literally no one. So lets join together and do something.
Addressing a Critical Need
The equestrian community faces unique mental health challenges. One stat that stood out from the Mental Health Survey we did, was that Nine out of ten equestrians would like an anonymous mental health helpline. This reflects the strong desire for confidential support options among equestrians.
Many of us have lost someone close or know people who have. These experiences underscore the importance of coming together to support one another and to break the stigma surrounding mental health. United, we break the stigma and create an environment where mental health is more openly discussed and supported.
Day 1: Education and Tangible Actions
The first day of the summit is dedicated to laying a solid foundation with education and actionable insights. The day begins with a Mindfulness and Meditation Session at 7:45 AM, setting a tone of clarity and focus for the discussions ahead. This session isn’t just about relaxation; it’s about equipping attendees with tools to manage stress effectively, a skill that is crucial for mental well-being.
The Cognitive Triangle session, from 9:45 AM to 10:30 AM, delves into how our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are interconnected. This session provides practical insights that attendees can apply in their daily lives to foster healthier mental habits.
One highlight of the day is the Panel Discussion: Living with Mental Illness. From 10:32 AM to 11:17 AM, participants will hear personal success stories from individuals who have faced mental health challenges head-on and emerged stronger. These stories are not just inspiring; they offer practical strategies for managing mental health conditions.
Following a keynote address and a Q&A session, attendees will break for lunch, providing an opportunity for networking and reflection. The afternoon sessions include a presentation on Loneliness and Isolation, discussing the impact of social disconnection and exploring ways to rebuild meaningful connections.
The day also features discussions on grief, neurodivergence, youth mental health, and workplace mental health policies. Each panel, featuring knowledgeable speakers and real-life experiences, aims to equip attendees with the knowledge and tools to support themselves and others in various aspects of mental health. The evening wraps up with two open mic panels, fostering a sense of community and shared understanding.
Day 2: Suicide Prevention
The second day is dedicated to the critical issue of suicide prevention. It is international suicide prevention day September 10th.
Sessions like Understanding Suicide: Misinformation and Fear and the cognitive triangle aim to dismantle the stigma and misinformation surrounding not just suicide but your thoughts, behaviours and actions.
Another panel discussions on Depression explores four different interventions, offering hope and options for those affected. The standout session of the afternoon, Building Your Suicide Survival Toolkit, focuses on creating a personal set of mental and social tools to support oneself and others. This practical workshop is designed to empower participants with actionable strategies for suicide prevention.
The summit concludes with a discussion on Behavioral Activation, emphasising the impact of behaviours on feelings and vice versa. This final session ties together the themes of the summit, highlighting the interplay between our actions and mental health.
Why You Should Attend
The Equestrian Mental Health Summit is more than just an event; it’s a movement towards a more informed, more focused, more practical and proactive approach to mental health and suicide prevention within the equestrian community. By attending, you will:
- Gain Knowledge: Learn from experts and real-life stories that provide deep insights into various mental health issues.
- Build Connections: Network with like-minded individuals, mental health professionals, and community leaders.
- Empower Yourself: Acquire practical tools and strategies to manage mental health challenges for yourself and others.
- Contribute to Change: Be part of a community dedicated to reducing stigma and promoting mental wellness.
This summit requires industry-wide support to enact real change. By coming together, we can create a stronger, more resilient equestrian community that prioritizes mental health and well-being.
Ticket Sales
Tickets for the Equestrian Mental Health Summit are now on sale. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a transformative experience that promises to equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to make a difference and if needed, to support you in whatever you are going through right now mentally or emotionally.
Join us at the Equestrian Mental Health Summit and take the first step towards a healthier, more connected future. Your participation can make a difference, not only in your own life but in the lives of those around you.
Buy Tickets Here: https://itsplainsailing.com/org/equitas
Until Next Time,
Shane
