Mental health toolkit release with Mark McGuigan

Episode Description / Show Notes:

In this special episode of Women's Football Hub, host Carolyn Kent welcomes back Mark McGuigan, a mental health occupational therapist and founder of Willow Grove Consulting, after our launch of the Mental Health and Recovery Toolkit — a free resource designed for athletes at every level.

Together, they explore the why behind the project and the how behind using simple but effective tools to manage mental health challenges in sport — from pre-match nerves to post-game disappointment.

🛠️ The toolkit includes four short audio/video resources:

• Dealing with Emotions

• Dealing with Negative Thoughts

• Guided Progressive Muscle Relaxation

• Dealing with Poor Performance

Whether you're a player, coach, or part of the support team, this episode offers insight into managing anxiety, increasing emotional regulation, and enhancing recovery.

📲 All tools are available in podcast and video format on the Women's Football Hub YouTube channel and podcast feed.

👥 Guest Bio: Mark McGuigan

Mark is a registered Mental Health Occupational Therapist with over 15 years' experience across secure services, inpatient wards, and community mental health. Through Willow Grove Consulting, he works directly with elite and grassroots athletes to support their mental health, performance, and recovery.

🧠 Key Topics:

• The link between mental health and performance

• Managing anxiety and panic in high-pressure situations

• What is the “window of tolerance”?

• Using breathing and grounding techniques for performance and wellbeing

• When to use proactive vs. reactive tools

• Why normalising mental health conversations matters in football

📌 Links & Resources:

🔗 Watch the Toolkit on YouTube: [Insert YouTube link] 🎧 Listen on Spotify/Apple Podcasts: [Insert podcast feed link] 🌐 Follow Mark McGuigan: @WGCmentalhealth | www.willowgrove.consulting

🗣️ Connect with Us:

Follow us on social media for more tools, episodes, and updates: 📸 Instagram & TikTok: @womens.football.hub 🐦 X (Twitter): @_WFootballhub 📘 Facebook | 🧵 Threads | 🔗 LinkedIn | 🌐 womensfootballhub.com