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They Said It: Disc Golf & Mental Health

They Said It: Disc Golf & Mental Health

Friday, October 22, 2021 - 09:37

From fresh air, physical activity to the community aspect of the sport, disc golf provides a wide-ranging list of mental health benefits.

Some called it nature therapy, a chance to get outside in the fresh air away from the stresses of daily life. Others enjoyed setting attainable goals and working to achieve them, an outlet to channel energy. It’s been a way for some to socialize, to join a community with at least one thing in common: the joy of flight.

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The simple joy of flight was one mental health benefit of disc golf.

Recently, we asked a simple question on the PDGA’s Facebook page: How has disc golf played a role in your mental health?

The answers were powerful.

Disc golf gave me something to distract myself with and just have time to myself. And has grown into an amazing network of friends all around the world! – Steve G.

It’s given me an outlet. Something to keep me out of my own head. I struggled with mental health growing up and then just ignored it: disc golf had given me a place to change those thoughts and energy into something productive. It’s given me more confidence in myself which I never had previously and taught me so much about myself and who I am/what I want and what makes me happy. – Tera B.

My son is 12. He discovered disc golf last summer and is obsessed. We had a rough year and this is his happy place. We take him 3x/week, rain or shine. – Christina J.

Disc golf has shown me the power of friendship and sportsmanship. How to control my emotions in intense situations. What can be achieved when you focus and have a routine you stick to day in and day out. Most importantly it's taught me you'll have bad rounds/days but the next could be your best so always go again. – Andrew M.

It gets the hubby out of my hair for a few hours!! – Yolanda O.

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Camaraderie and community play a big part of disc golf.

The feeling of tourney day .. that fresh challenge on the horizon.. the new faces and names on the card .. the support of an amazing community.. fresh new discs !! .. the feeling of that first ace .. the first eagle .. oh my does it get any better .. I traded one addiction for another one that would have taken everything.. disc golf has changed my life forever. – Zackary G.

When I'm on the course, nothing is important except my next shot. Even if I'm not playing my best, I'm getting fresh air and exercise surrounded by nature, So it's very therapeutic. – Chris M.

It saved my life! I was lost after leaving the military and coming right from a combat zone. I didn't have any focus. Disc golf introduced me to so many amazing people and formed life long relationships. It helped me with direction and gave me the physical activity I needed to get back to who I am! – Kyle A.

It's really helped to keep me out of my own head and not give into anxious and negative thoughts. I'm still working hard on the mental game aspect of disc golf by focusing instead on my form, strength and just overall improving my game. I'm so grateful for this sport for giving me this outlet and helping me to meet others to bring me out of my little bubble. – Kimberly D.

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Focusing on the task at hand or setting a goal to work toward is another benefit for some.

It's completely changed my life and my outlook on it. It's not just the disc golf, though. It's reestablishing friendships and meeting new people who love what you do. It's exercise instead of TV. It's something else to look forward to. It's getting to know and follow the tour players. It's getting to know the incredible people that make up the community. It's being able to really compete again in my forties. It's nature therapy. It's a healthier body, stronger focus and calm mind. It's not JUST disc golf. – John N.

Disc golf has given me purpose. I look forward to when I can play next. I look forward to maintaining old courses & building new ones. I look forward to seeing people who I consider my family. I now have purpose & a reason to optimistically look forward. – Barry M.

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Fresh air and a walk through nature are mental health benefits to some.

Disc golf has helped me with my bipolar disorder. It helps me be mindful and calm. It trains my brain to be present and in the moment. I tend to over think things a lot. Disc golf allows me to clear the mind and let go of my worries and anxiety. It’s one of my most valuable reasons to why I love the sport so much. – Grace S.

I have bipolar 1 with anxiety and major depressive disorder....disc golf is the only thing that gets me out of the house....helps me socialize and meet new and exciting people. Disc golf is a key factor why I am still here, along with my dog. – Robbie S.

Disc golf has helped me reduce several symptoms of anxiety. Getting out in nature is so calming and being able to focus my energy into the sport, rather than my negative thoughts has helped me so much! Now to just improve my game! – Treasure T.

How has disc golf played a role in your mental health? Share your stories in the comments below.

Join the conversation on PDGA Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Comments

In my late 20s I started playing during business travel. Coworkers invited me to go drink after meetings, but I had other plans —sunlight, fresh air, hiking, and the game I love. I’ve had a healthy, happy life, and still going strong.

Disc golf is something I am passionate about. That in itself is amazing, as it can be difficult to find things in life you are truly passionate about. And the benefits that come with that are many, especially for my mental health. It helps me to de-stress, to get some exercise outside, and motivation to focus and improve. And of course the comradery! I have benefited greatly from disc golf.

Discovering that a disc golf course had opened near me in Toronto was a major revelation - since after all I had played 'frolf' with friends in that very park as a teenager many years ago. I learned quickly that everyone I met playing disc golf had a great attitude, they all seemed to be there for the same reasons - get outdoors, meet new people, and smack chains with plastic. Covid was really hard and distancing - and frankly life has enough challenges as it is - so finding a new group of people and a new activity that I could just pick up at any time might have saved my sanity.