Mental Health of Our Athletes w/special guest Monique Williams, MA

For decades, youth sports in the United States has been an avenue for kids of all ages to make friends, be physically active, challenge themselves, and learn skills such as teamwork, sportsmanship, confidence, and the value of hard work.  All of which can provide great stepping stones towards personal growth and achievement later in life to help them reach their personal level of success. When it comes to mental health, sports can be an immensely positive experience for many participants. Simultaneously, being an athlete may present unique challenges to an individual’s mental health. It is important for parents, family members, coaches, and teammates to understand both the mental health risks and benefits to ensure youth athletes have the greatest opportunity for success and enjoy participating in sports.  Mental health is often placed on the back burner or behind all other concerns.  If your child shows up at practice with a swollen ankle, the coach will immediately send him/her to the trainer, but if your child get to practice and say to the coach, "I have a few personal things on my mind and plan to miss practice".  The coach would be taken by surprise and may have a few colorful words to share with your child ........ Without inquiring the nature of the concerns.  Why?  Let's discuss this ....