Eric is the Outreach Coordinator of the Depression Centre of the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, and speaks to groups, including major corporations and the U.S. Military on suicide prevention and mental illness. Eric travels and gives speeches at high schools and youth groups, educating others about the dangers of depression and not getting help. He is the author of Real Men Do Cry published by Quality of LIfe publishing.
Tips for Coaches around the General Mental Health of their Student Athletes
Be aware that the culture of sport often says: “be tough, fight through pain and don’t show weakness”. Consider how this affects other areas of an athlete’s social and emotional development.
Be aware that many athletes’ identity is exclusively tied to being an athlete. If this role stops e.g. injury, is released or “cut” from the team, is ineligible, students may experience difficulty transitioning to a new role.
Stigma (shame and embarrassment) is the major barrier for young people reaching out for help.
Students report they are concerned about confidentiality if they are honest about what is going on for them, concerned parents or administrators will find out about their issues.
Student athletes are concerned that campus counsellors will not truly understand sport culture.
Coaches need to take time to listen and get to know student athletes.
Coaches need to know how and when to refer a student for mental health support or crisis support.
Anxiety disorder is common and usually surfaces during late teens or twenties. Approximately 7 % of college aged Canadians report having symptoms.
From Anxiety Canada
Mental health red flags to look for in athletes:
- Changes in sleep and or eating (increase or decrease)
- Difficulty concentrating
- Decreased performance in school or sport
- Decreased interest or pleasure in most activities
- Increased fatigue or loss of energy
- Feelings of sadness, worthlessness or guilt
- Alcohol or drug abuse
From the NCAA
Early adolescence: Emotional development for Coaches to be Aware of:
Physical, mental and emotional maturity may not develop at the same time-develop. Athletes who look mature may not act it. Confusion or anxiety may arise.
- Develop communication skills and understanding.
Tensions may arise between adults and adolescents. Adolescents need help to cope with their physical and emotional changes.
- Ensure two-way communication channels are always open. Allow athletes input into the decision making.
Hormonal activity increases. Athletes may experience mood swings and behaviour may change.
- Communicate and accept changes, but don’t let hormonal changes be an excuse for negative behaviour.
Social interaction between males and females becomes important. Athletes want to form friendships and it is important to allow time for them to develop positive relationships.
- Try to organize social events that allow social interaction.
Late Adolescence: Emotional development for Coaches to be Aware of:
Major decisions about examinations, universities, and employment work have to be made. There are ‘pulls’ on time and energy.
- Build in prophylactic breaks. Be aware of external pressures. Seek professional guidance to ensure the correct career and educational pathway.
Peer group pressure leads to conflicting loyalties. An athlete may give up sport because of peer pressure and the need to be seen as one of the gang.
- Be sensitive in goal setting to ensure that common goals are established and met.
Self-actualization and self-expression are important.
- Treat athletes as adults. Share goals and work co-operatively towards them. Maintain a coach-led structure.
Interactions with friends of both sexes continue to be a strong priority.
- Allow time to establish independent social interaction.
Coaches, check out mindyourmind's youth created posters here promoting awareness of the common misperceptions about mental health issues in young people.
Check out mindyourmind interviews with athletes here.
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