May is Mental Health Awareness Month—a reminder that taking care of your mental well-being is just as important as physical health. At Youth on Course, our members and alumni often share how golf has helped them find calm, build confidence, and feel more connected.
It turns out—they’re not alone. Science backs it up, too.
Whether it's the steady rhythm of walking a course, the deep breath before a swing, or the joy of a good round with a friend, golf has powerful benefits for the mind and soul.
Here are 10 ways golf supports mental health, according to our members, our alumni, and the research:
1. Time in Nature Reduces Stress
Spending hours outdoors in green, open spaces is more than relaxing—it’s healing. A leading expert from the Golf & Health project confirms that regular exposure to nature through golf can reduce anxiety and depression.
2. Physical Activity Boosts Mood
Golf is a low-impact sport that keeps you moving—often for 4+ miles per round. That movement gets your blood flowing and your mood lifted.
76% say playing golf through Youth on Course is helping improve their mental health
3. Focus Brings Mindfulness
Every shot in golf invites focus—and that focus is a form of mindfulness. It helps players stay present, manage emotions, and train the brain to reset.
4. Social Play Builds Community
Golf isn’t always a solo sport. Playing with a group, even occasionally, helps foster connection, laughter, and belonging—especially for young people.
The Golf Foundation highlights the importance of social support in helping youth develop confidence and emotional resilience.
"Finding positive ways for 13-15-year-old boys to spend their summers can be a challenge. This membership has given my son and his friends a healthy, positive choice to spend 3-4 hours. His peer group has expanded, and we are thrilled that this is a lifelong skill that he has been able to do with buddies."
— Amy, Parent of Youth on Course Member
5. Achievement Fuels Confidence
That moment you hit your first clean shot? Sink a long putt? It stays with you. Small wins on the course can build major confidence in life.
80% say Youth on Course is helping them improve their confidence
Golf & Health research also shows that golf helps individuals improve their self-worth and overall mental well-being.
6. Routine Creates Stability
Whether you’re playing every week or once a month, golf gives your schedule a steady rhythm—something that experts say can improve mood and reduce anxiety.
7. A Digital Detox in Disguise
Golf is a chance to unplug. No screens, no notifications—just fresh air and the sound of a well-hit ball.
According to Golf Digest, time away from phones and screens improves focus and sleep and reduces anxiety.
88% say Youth on Course is helping them spend more time in nature
8. Adversity Builds Resilience
Golf teaches patience, problem-solving, and persistence. Bad shots are part of the game—and learning to bounce back is part of life.
9. Sunlight Supports Mood
Sunlight = vitamin D, and vitamin D = improved mood, stronger bones, and better sleep. One more reason that afternoon round matters.
10. Tools for Ongoing Wellness
For our alumni, don’t forget—free access to Headspace may still be available. It’s a great way to build healthy habits like meditation and better sleep alongside your time on the course.