A Youth Sports Safety Summit recently concluded in the great state of Texas. It was the sixth summit sponsored by the National Athletic Trainer’s Association. The summit provided a platform to discuss new recommendations for protecting young athletes.
There has been much attention in recent years directed towards the danger of concussions. This year’s summit also focused on the need for trainers to keep an eye on player’s mental health. The number of student athletes who will struggle with mental health concerns is far more than the number who will suffer from a concussion. Yet, while parents and coaches have no trouble discussing how to avoid and treat concussions, few find the same level of comfort when it comes to mental health dangers.
Athletes can struggle with performance issues whether based on earning a scholarship, protecting a position or the fear of stumbling in public. There are many more things that a coach or trainer needs to keep on their radar however. For instance, an injury can sometimes trigger depression or anxiety. For some athletes, an eating disorder is a genuine risk. Substance abuse may happen less often among athletes, but it still happens. And bullying takes place in the ranks as well – both as perpetrator and victim.
Unless the trainer has developed a personal relationship with athletes these problems can go undetected. On the other hand, an engaged coach can play an important role in recognizing mental health struggles and de-stigmatizing treatment. Parents play a vital role, but as athletes age they may spend more one-on-one time with coaches and trainers who would have an invaluable front row seat into young lives.
At Family Guidance we welcome the attention being given to mental health among athletes. We are ready to partner with parents and athletic trainers in making sure that our youth learn how to overcome mental health obstacles.
