Osasuna en Mente Program Promotes Inclusion for Individuals with Mental Health Conditions

Fundación Osasuna, in partnership with the Asociación ANASAPS (The Navarrese Association for Mental Health), has launched the inaugural edition of "Osasuna en Mente" (Osasuna in Mind), a program aimed at individuals with mental health conditions. The initiative kicked off on Wednesday, October 8, with a training session at the Tajonar Sports Complex.

The program's primary objective is to promote wellness and inclusion for participants. Sessions will be held every Wednesday, free of charge, at the José María Irribaren Complex in the Ermitagaña neighborhood, following the initial session at Tajonar. Ignacio Martínez and Estibaliz del Río, members of the Fundación Osasuna coaching staff, will lead the sessions. The program welcomes collaboration from any association or hospital with a mental health unit.

Gorka Goñi, responsible for Sporting Activities at Fundación Osasuna, views the launch of this project as a significant advancement, particularly with the association's collaboration with ANASAPS.

"The football school, 'Osasuna en Mente,' is designed for individuals with mental health conditions. We are partnering with ANASAPS, the leading association for this community in Navarre, to help them enroll in our program. Their support has been crucial in initiating this project. Currently, we have 10 participants and hope the program will continue to grow throughout the season," Goñi said. "Our goal is to train once a week, on Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. While today marks our first session, the long-term plan is for this group to train at the José María Irribaren Complex, with sessions lasting up to 90 minutes. Two professional coaches, Estibaliz Del Río and Ignacio Martínez 'Pipa,' are dedicated to ensuring a positive experience for all participants."

Goñi emphasized that Osasuna aims to be an inclusive space for diverse communities, highlighting that sports serve as a way for individuals to feel accepted and welcomed.

"It is essential for Osasuna to engage with every community, including children, teenagers, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. This program specifically targeting individuals with mental health conditions represents a significant step forward in our mission to use football, a team sport, to enhance participants' lives both individually and socially," he said.

Aitziber Yanoz, coordinator at ANASAPS, noted that one of the significant challenges faced by people with mental health conditions is stigma, which can lead to exclusion and hinder their ability to engage in everyday life. Programs like "Osasuna en Mente" are crucial for fostering inclusion and community connection.

"One of the primary challenges for individuals with mental health issues is the associated stigma. Therefore, inclusion is imperative. Engaging in diverse activities with different groups highlights the benefits of sports," Yanoz said. "These activities not only boost individual morale but also empower participants to overcome personal challenges, leading to improvements in both physical and mental well-being. Team sports foster friendships and connections that can significantly enhance their lives."

Yanoz concluded by emphasizing the importance of the partnership between Osasuna and ANASAPS, as these collaborations drive growth for both organizations and enrich the participant experience.

"Support for this initiative is crucial as it raises awareness and promotes mutual improvement. Without these partnerships, implementing such programs would be nearly impossible. We strive to provide access to appropriate facilities, make inclusion a reality, and help participants enjoy football and sports to the fullest," Yanoz said.