6 Reasons NICAS is brilliant for mental health

Climbing isn’t just about physical challenges; it’s also a powerful way to improve mental health. That’s why NICAS offers so much more than just a climbing programme – it can provide a pathway to better wellbeing for the young people on our schemes.

This World Mental Health Day (10 October 2024), we want to highlight six key reasons why participating in NICAS sessions can make a positive impact on the mental health of our climbers:

• Reducing stress and boosting endorphins
  Climbing isn’t just a fantastic workout for your muscles – it’s a stress-buster too! As you conquer those routes, your body releases endorphins, the feel-good hormones that help reduce stress and elevate your mood. Climbing also requires a high level of focus, which means your mind has to work hard to stay in the moment when you’re on the wall. Other problems fall away, reducing anxiety and improving decision-making skills.
  
• Building self-confidence
  With every route tackled or new skill learned, young climbers build a strong sense of achievement, boosting their self-confidence. Our coaches encourage collaboration and teamwork, fostering an atmosphere where young climbers can speak up, share ideas, and work together to overcome obstacles. This newfound confidence doesn’t stay on the climbing wall – it translates into everyday life, empowering them to tackle challenges head-on.
  
• Encouraging independence
  At NICAS, independence is not just encouraged, it’s built into our syllabus. The structure and progressive nature of learning through NICAS is designed to create competent, confident, and independent climbers.
  
• Sharpening problem-solving skills
  Climbing is not just a physical challenge; it’s a mental workout too. Figuring out the best moves, planning your route, and adapting as you climb all require strategic thinking and adaptability. This gives your brain – and your mental health – a boost, as well as providing a sense of accomplishment. And better problem-solving skills gained through climbing contribute to improved resilience and a positive mindset as well.
  
• Feeling more connected
  Giving young people the opportunity to socialise in a safe and fun environment is a huge part of what makes NICAS so successful. Taking part in NICAS sessions helps young people connect to – and feel more connected to – others who share their interests, allowing friendships to grow and creating a sense of belonging. Session goals set by NICAS coaches often encourage communication and teamwork, reducing feelings of isolation and creating a supportive social network that contributes to overall mental well-being.
  
• It’s super FUN!
  It could be the thrill of getting to the top, a lightbulb moment when you figure out a gnarly problem, the joy of moving your body, or just happy times at the wall with friends. Or it could be the crazy, silly warm-ups and games that NICAS coaches share with their learners. More fun equals less stress, and better coping and resilience!

This positive impact wouldn’t be possible without the incredible coaches at our accredited centres. Their dedication and enthusiasm not only guide young climbers through the physical challenges of the wall but also foster the mental and emotional growth that makes NICAS sessions so beneficial. By creating a supportive, fun, and inclusive environment, our coaches play a vital role in helping young people build confidence, reduce stress, and feel connected – key factors in improving mental health.

At NICAS, we love hearing directly from parents, coaches, and centre managers about the positive impact our sessions have. If you have a NICAS success story to share, we’d love to hear from you—just get in touch.