Mental Health and Recreational Angling in UK Adult Males

This study has highlighted that those who took part in angling more regularly were less likely to report being diagnosed with depression, schizophrenia, suicidal thoughts, and having deliberately self-harmed compared to those taking part in angling less regularly. Taking part in angling more regularly also resulted in higher mental well-being and fewer depressive and anxiety symptoms compared to taking part less regularly. However, it should be noted that the anglers in this cohort appeared to have higher levels of diagnosed anxiety disorder, diagnosed depression, and suicidal thoughts than the general UK population. With this particular cohort self-reporting high levels of moderate–vigorous physical activity, this would suggest that encouraging participation in angling could be a good dual method strategy for both promoting relaxation and good mental health, as well as encouraging increased levels of physical activity within those with mental health issues, such as those experiencing suicidal thoughts.