Refugees in Greek camp improve mental health through gym initiative

Every year, thousands of refugees from Turkey arrive on the small Greek island of Lesbos, fleeing war and poverty. 

Those who survive the perilous journey, in which thousands have died, stay in refugee camps that are usually overcrowded and lacking in basic necessities. 

As the stay is usually prolonged, often for months and even years, the mental health of refugees deteriorates significantly. 

Seven years ago, French volunteer Estelle Jean saw firsthand how people in a refugee camp were suffering from anxiety, stress and depression. 

Estelle ventured to create a gym where they could exercise, giving them a space to escape the harsh conditions and improve their mental health. 

The project became 'Yoga&Sports', located near the Kara Tepe refugee camp on Lesbos. 

The gym provides space for 200 to 300 refugees to practice various sports, including martial arts, running, dancing, and tailored activities for women. 

"Living in a refugee camp is a huge trauma, and when we come here, that trauma goes away," says James Thullah, a 24-year-old refugee from Sierra Leone. 

James now works as a trainer at the gym. He is just one of several coaches who used to play sports and now teach others as a way to feel fulfilled. 

One of the goals of the project is to show refugees that they can pursue professional careers or become teachers in relevant fields. 

"They have potential and are determined to succeed because they have been through very difficult situations," says Estelle. 

The project is not supported by the European Union or the Greek government and is supported by organizations such as the Catalan Cooperation Fund. 

But Estelle believes it is better this way because the EU would impose "restrictions" if it funded it.