Mental Health matters, whether you’re an everyday Golfer, or a professional playing at the highest level. That is a view held not only by ourselves here at GYH, but also by this week’s guest, Dr Ian Peek. Ian is a Master PGA Professional - a recognition of excellence which the PGA bestows on only a select few members - who recently completed a PhD in Social Psychology, examining the mental health challenges faced by some of the world's best golfers. As part of his research, he interviewed 16 tour professionals, including Ryder Cup players and past champions on the DP World Tour. In his findings, it transpired that 50% of the players cited long-term depression and anxiety, with some even experiencing it whilst operating at the highest level of the game. In a far-reaching conversation, Kris and Ian explore: 👉🏻 How are attitudes towards and discussions about Mental Health evolving within Golf? 👉🏻 How can we get enjoyment from Golf, whilst still striving for high performance? 👉🏻 How can club golfers set effective and realistic goals to improve their game? 👉🏻 What role do parents play in supporting young athletes? 00:00 Episode Intro 02:00 Introducing Ian Peek: Master PGA Professional 05:48 The Challenges of Elite Golfers 06:22 Balancing Social and Competitive Golf 17:44 Insights from Ian's PhD Research 20:02 Mental Health and Performance in Professional Golf 33:07 The Struggles of Admitting Defeat 33:47 Grieving in the Public Eye 34:42 The Role of Managers in Mental Health 37:09 Generational Perspectives on Mental Health 38:53 Changing Attitudes in Professional Golf 39:36 Personal Experiences with Anxiety 50:19 The Importance of Realistic Goal Setting 53:08 Encouraging Children in Sports ❓About the Show: At Golf Yourself Healthy, we believe that Golf is Good for you. Through the power of Storytelling, the GYH Podcast invites guests from a wide range of backgrounds - including Golf professionals, health practitioners, influencers and public figures - to discuss how Golf can positively impact our Health and Wellbeing. 🔗 Website www.golfyourselfhealthy.com 📧 Get in touch on e-mail [email protected] 🔎 Follow us on Social Media instagram.com/golfyourselfhealthy 📚Episode links and resources https://www.pga.info/news/pga-pro-peek-driving-a-better-understanding-of-mental-illness-with-phd-study/ https://www.pga.info/news/peek-awarded-top-pga-honour/ https://www.tandpcoaching.com/ https://www.instagram.com/drianpeekcoaching?igsh=OW5md20wN21xMjk5