Giffoni Innovation Hub and Havas Life Milan: Promotion of “SportAgers”
A new paradigm is emerging in response to the challenges posed by the mental health of young people: the shift from “ScreenAgers” to “SportAgers”. During the MasterClass of July 27, held at the 54th edition of the Giffoni Film Festival, the crucial role of sport as a tool for promoting physical and mental well-being for the new generations was discussed. The event saw the participation of institutional figures, athletes and health experts, offering a multidisciplinary perspective on the topic.
An Open Dialogue with Young People
The MasterClass involved young people between 12 and 26 years old in an open dialogue with health, sports and institutional experts. It clearly emerged how sport can be a fundamental resource to prevent negative emotions and vulnerabilities such as emotional suffering, loneliness and insecurity. These exchanges highlighted the importance of sport as a vehicle for social relationships and psychological well-being.
Towards a New Mindset: The “SportAgers”
The concept of “SportAgers”, introduced during the event, promotes more conscious and active behaviors. As explained by Prof. Alberto Siracusano, this paradigm shift aims to transform the time spent in front of screens into an opportunity for social relationships and physical activity, satisfying a growing need for a culture of physical and mental well-being.
Alarming Data on Youth Mental Health
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), between 10 and 20% of children and adolescents suffer from mental disorders. Furthermore, 50% of all mental illnesses begin by age 14, and 75% by age 25. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated this situation, increasing mental disorders among young people by more than 30%. The event highlighted the urgency of greater attention and collective awareness.
Declarations and Commitments of the Institutions
During the event, Andrea Abodi, Minister for Sport and Youth, emphasized that sports activity represents a “social immune defense” essential for health. Prof. Alberto Siracusano described sport as a “training for life” and a powerful tool for building the psychophysical balance of young people.
Supporting Mental Health Through Sport
Beniamino Quintieri, President of the Istituto per il Credito Sportivo e Culturale SpA, highlighted the need to create spaces for inclusion and personal growth through investments in sports infrastructure. Giovanni Sacripante, of the FIGC, mentioned the Division of Paralympic and Experimental Football as an international model of inclusion through sport.
A Long-Term Project
Carola Salvato, Executive Chairwoman and Ambassador for Mental Health at Havas Life Milan, and Luca Tesauro, CEO of Giffoni Innovation Hub, reiterated the importance of promoting a sports culture to address one of the greatest challenges of contemporary society: the mental health and well-being of young people.
Thanks and Support
The MasterClass “SportAgers: Sport, Youth & Health” was made possible thanks to the support of partners and sponsors such as Angelini Pharma, Lundbeck Italia, and Poste Italiane. Special thanks were given to these supporters for their contribution in the realization of this significant initiative.
Article published on 29 July 2024 - 14:07
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