England international and Chelsea captain Millie Bright has been appointed as an ambassador for Young Minds, a leading charity focused on children’s mental health. This new role marks a significant step in Bright’s ongoing commitment to mental health advocacy, an area she has been vocal about, drawing from her own personal experiences. Bright, who captained England to the 2023 Women’s World Cup final, describes this new role as “the most moving thing” she will do in her career.
Bright’s passion for mental health advocacy stems from her personal journey, particularly her experience supporting her mother through severe depression and anxiety. Having witnessed the profound impact of mental health struggles on a loved one, Bright is driven to use her platform to help young people navigate similar challenges. In an interview with BBC Sport, Bright emphasized the prevalence of mental health issues, noting how “scary” it is to see so many people struggling. She highlighted the importance of community and support, stressing that no one should feel alone in a world filled with billions of people.
In her role with YoungMinds, Bright plans to actively engage with young people by visiting schools and participating in events to promote mental well-being. She aims to create safe spaces where young people can openly discuss their struggles without fear of judgment. Bright’s approach to support is grounded in her personal experiences, where she has learned that offering practical help, rather than simply asking if someone is okay, can be more effective in guiding them back to a positive state of mind.
Reflecting on her mother’s journey, Bright shared how the transformation from struggling with mental health issues to finding peace and happiness was both challenging and rewarding. She recalled how their family farm served as a sanctuary for her mother, a place where the burdens of mental health seemed to lift. Bright acknowledges, however, that not everyone has the same outcome, and many people continue to feel isolated and without support. This is why she finds the work of YoungMinds so compelling, as the charity focuses not only on helping the individual but also on supporting their families, which she believes is crucial in the healing process.
Bright’s own mental health journey has not been without its challenges. In May, she candidly discussed how a lengthy injury left her questioning her football career, a difficult period that was exacerbated by the pressures of the COVID-19 pandemic. During this time, Bright and her best friend, former England international Rachel Daly, launched a social media initiative called “Your Daly Dose of Brightness.” The platform was created to offer support and positivity to others during a time of widespread uncertainty and anxiety. The response was overwhelming, with many people reaching out to share their struggles and to thank Bright and Daly for their support.
As an ambassador for YoungMinds, Bright encourages young people to utilize the resources available to them, emphasizing the importance of seeking help when needed. She also shares personal tips that have helped her manage her mental health, such as maintaining a “safe circle” of close friends and family. Among her trusted confidants are her fiancé Levi, Chelsea teammates Sam Kerr, Guro Reiten, and Erin Cuthbert, as well as former England stars Daly and Carly Telford. Bright also practices journaling, a habit she describes as a “life-saver,” particularly in the high-pressure world of professional football where opinions can be both uplifting and destructive. By documenting positive experiences, Bright finds comfort and perspective, helping her navigate the ups and downs of her career.
Bright’s relationship with social media is complex; while she acknowledges its potential to be a “toxic place,” especially when trying to heal, she also recognizes its power to connect and support. She believes that social media, when used positively, can be a tool for uplifting others and creating a sense of community. Bright’s hope is to remind people of the positive potential of these platforms and to encourage an environment of mutual support and encouragement.
In her new role with YoungMinds, Millie Bright is set to make a significant impact on children’s mental health, drawing on her personal experiences and dedication to helping others. Her journey as an advocate underscores the importance of mental health awareness and the need for compassionate, practical support in overcoming the challenges many face today.
