Pickleball Therapy for Mental Health: A small parking lot pickleball court in Cincinnati is giving new life to people battling mental illness. At the Recovery Center of Hamilton County, staff and participants are using the fast-growing sport as a unique tool to build connections and improve mental well-being.
The program was started by Bill Brown, a recovery specialist who wanted a new way to reach people he couldn’t connect with through traditional therapy.
“What we’re doing is offering anything we can think of that will stick with somebody. And so far, something has.” – (Brown)
Overcoming isolation through sport
One person who has seen a big change is Betsy Fischer. At one time, she could barely leave her house.
“It was very, very hard for me just to talk to people. I felt very isolated and depressed. That’s why environments like this are so important.” – (Fischer)
Now, she comes every Wednesday to play pickleball with the group.
“It’s brought me out of my shell. You would never know that I struggle with mental illness.” – (Fischer)
Community makes the difference
Judy Lamping is another regular at the weekly games. She jokes about her story.
“You don’t have time for that. I can talk the ear off a badger.” – (Lamping)
Lamping says her skill at pickleball doesn’t matter—nor does her diagnosis of depression and anxiety. What matters most is the chance to be with people who understand her.
“It saved my life. It really has. It saved my life.” – (Lamping)
A simple goal: Reach one person
Each week, Brown watches from the sidelines and cheers for the players.
“That’s what I love about this place. We’ll do whatever we can to reach one person.” – (Brown)
The effort is already making a powerful impact. The Recovery Center plans to continue the weekly pickleball practice as a simple but effective way to build community and help those struggling with mental illness.
News in Brief: Pickleball Therapy for Mental Health
The Recovery Center of Hamilton County in Cincinnati is using weekly pickleball games to help people with mental illness connect and heal. Participants say the program helps them overcome isolation and improve mental well-being.
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