James Routledge, founder of Sanctus, envisions a future where mental health gyms are as common as physical fitness centres.
Inspired by his personal journey through anxiety and business challenges, Routledge aims to destigmatise mental health by bringing it to the forefront of community spaces.
Mental health is often overshadowed by the emphasis on physical fitness, but this paradigm is shifting. Routledge’s vision is to make mental fitness accessible to everyone by establishing mental health gyms on high streets. These spaces will offer mental health coaching, meditation classes, and support groups, fostering an environment where mental wellness is treated with the same importance as physical health.
“Everyone I spoke to could relate to me and I could relate to them,” he said, describing his experiences and the overwhelming response he received. This revelation sparked the concept of a mental health gym, a place not just for those diagnosed but for everyone seeking mental resilience.
These centres will provide tools for self-awareness, resilience, and empathy. They aim to educate the public by championing a positive discourse around mental health. Routledge envisions a new societal norm where attending a mental health gym is as routine as going to a physical gym.
Such initiatives encourage individuals to seek help proactively, without the burden of social stigma. By mainstreaming mental health support, the hope is to inspire societal change from the grassroots level, fostering a culture of openness and understanding.
By providing structured support and resources, these gyms empower individuals to manage their mental well-being actively. This empowerment, coupled with community engagement, sets the stage for a paradigm shift in how mental health is perceived and addressed.
Strategically located on high streets, these gyms ensure easy access, making mental health care part of everyday life. This integration into routine life represents a future where mental well-being is equally prioritised alongside physical health.
The introduction of mental health gyms on high streets represents a revolutionary approach to mental wellbeing.
Routledge’s vision not only challenges existing paradigms but also promises to create more resilient and empathetic communities.
