Are you ok?

Reaching out to the person next to you to ask “Are you OK?” is a simple yet meaningful gesture

that can help promote our mental health.

This idea is at the heart of the Friendship Bench initiative, developed in Zimbabwe and supported by the World Health Organization, to provide safe places in our communities for people to talk together. “Talking therapy” can help people who experience conditions like anxiety and depression.

Motivated by Qatar’s hosting of the first FIFA World Cup in the Middle East in 2022, 32 benches – representing each of the nations competing in world football’s premier tournament – have been designed by local Qatari artists, who brought their experiences in overcoming mental health challenges into the art installed in Doha.

The benches also symbolize our goal of using the 2022 tournament to promote lasting positive change in Doha and beyond.

Situated in public spaces, including stadium precincts, these 32 benches represent the nations competing in the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. Their location is intentional – by walking to the bench, people will also experience the shared physical and mental health benefits of exercise.

So, enjoy your rest at this bench, and if you get the chance #REACHOUT to the person next to you and ask “Are you ok?”