Blog: End of season blues

I read recently that football fans can suffer severe withdrawal symptoms and depression when the football season ends. Not only have they got to contend with the highs and lows of watching their football team win or lose during the season, they also have to cope with a massive sense of loss when it all comes to an end.

I've always been intrigued at the deep rooted relationship football fans have with their team. There's a real emotional attachment there and in many ways it's not surprising that the passion they have for their team leaves a certain emptiness when that final whistle is blown. On the positive side many supporters will still have their support network of like-minded fans to chat to and help them cope with the end of season blues.

In all walks of life a support network can be invaluable. Take someone who has been diagnosed with a serious illness. They'll be feeling vulnerable and frightened and will have many questions that can't be answered by family and friends.

These feelings can be heightened if there's no-one to talk to about their fears and concerns. This is where additional support services that come with some protection plans help.

They offer practical and emotional support and for many people offer more of a lifeline than the financial payout. Having a reassuring voice at the end of the phone will be a huge comfort to someone struggling to come to terms with their illness. This support can extend to close family too.

So when the conversation around protection starts, let clients know that some plans don't just provide a payout, they also come with additional features. And with the NHS so overstretched these services could be invaluable.

When a football team loses, its fans often need a shoulder to cry on. Some protection products can be just as supportive, emotionally as they are financially.

Roger Edwards is managing director of Bright Grey & Scottish Provident