Culture, sport, health and wellbeing

Grief, money worries, fear about the future and social isolation have all been taking their toll. The Office for National Statistics recently highlighted that 21% of adults in Britain experienced depression between January and March 2021; more than double pre-pandemic levels. Younger adults and women have been particularly badly affected with 43% of women aged 16 to 29 years experiencing depressive symptoms. The impact of the pandemic has widened many existing health inequalities.

But we also know that regular participation in sport and physical activity is linked to the prevention of at least 20 conditions, supports positive mental health and is often particularly effective in helping to manage depression and anxiety. Engaging in cultural activities builds social connections and helps us find calm, meaning and purpose in an increasingly frantic and scary world.

Dr Bridget McConnell CBE – Chief Executive of Glasgow Life – chairs a panel discussion reflecting on the crucial role of sport, physical activity and cultural participation in broadening our understanding of health and wellbeing. Dr McConnell will be in conversation with Katherine Grainger, and Mel Young to discuss why culture and sport must underpin Scotland’s pandemic recovery.