SHARE 2.0 initiative releases insights on healthy lifestyles and mental health in the sport sector

The SHARE 2.0 community of practice on health has released two papers that delve into the importance of sport and physical activity for healthy lifestyles of EU citizens and mental health of young persons.

The papers offer actionable recommendations that could serve as models for communities in Europe.

They can serve as a valuable resource for local and regional administrations, policymakers, and sport stakeholders committed to fostering healthier environments.

Key findings and recommendations

Ideas paper on promoting healthy lifestyles and creating health-enabling environments

• Urban planning with a purpose: local communities should be engaged to create sports-friendly spaces.
• Integrating physical activity into urban planning to make sure that sport can happen where people live.
• Mobility revolution: back cycling and active mobility as a way to stay healthy in everyday life.
• Joy over competition: consider sports activities that focus on socialising and community-building to reach adults and the elderly.
• Tailoring to individual needs: tailor physical activity programmes to different age groups, mobility and energy levels.

Read the ideas paper on promoting healthy lifestyles and creating health-enabling environments

Ideas paper on mental health support for young people through sport and physical activity 

• Promote training for coaches in mental health literacy to develop the required soft skills.
• Early detection places: schools and sports facilities can become the place where prevention and early detection of mental health concerns can take place.
• Creating safe spaces: develop safe, supportive spaces for physical activities.
• Collaborative care models: unite sports facilities, schools, and healthcare providers for comprehensive mental health services.

Read the ideas paper on mental health support for young people through sport and physical activity

Background

The first SHARE 2.0 conference, which took place in Brussels on 11 September 2024, allowed the members of the community of practice on health to gather and discuss about health in sport. These papers are the result of the conference.