Every year, millions of American youths join a sports team, either through school or a community league. Studies show that participating in sports can have positive mental health benefits for children. This can include higher academic achievement and increased confidence, self-esteem, and social skills.
However, the pressure for teens to excel in athletics can be intense. Persistent anxiety and stress can lead to self-doubt, poor performance on and off the field, depression, or even substance use.
Changing the Game on Mental Health
Protecting the mental health of student athletes is now a top priority for many parents, schools, and athletic organizations. Independence Blue Cross, in collaboration with the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, is proud to support the Philadelphia Union Foundation’s HeadFirst initiative.
HeadFirst is a groundbreaking educational program that weaves mental health awareness into the fabric of sports. HeadFirst helps student athletes have a more positive experience on the field with tools such as goal setting, visualization, and stress management.
Quieting the Mind Chatter
Student athletes often juggle expectations from parents, teachers, coaches, and peers, as well as self-created pressure, according to Mitch Greene, Ph.D., licensed clinical and sport psychologist. Many teens become preoccupied with their performance, trying to fit in, or getting scholarships to reimburse parents for the time and money invested in them. Dr. Greene calls this “mind chatter” ― negative thoughts and self-doubt that cloud the brain and make it hard to think clearly.
“When a teen’s mind chatter takes over, fears often become exaggerated,” Dr. Greene says. “Sports can already carry a lot of weight with identity entangled in performance. When a student-athlete’s mind chatter becomes the predominant voice they hear, that weight can increase and create even more anxious, negative feelings.”
Putting Sports into Perspective
Many factors can contribute to an athlete’s feelings of stress and anxiety. Dr. Greene suggests the following techniques to get teens to open up:
Less talking, more listening. Give your teen opportunities to freely share their thoughts about sports. This can reduce their anxiety.
Creating a “no sports” conversation zone. Set a time in the day when your teen knows sports will not be discussed. Teens who are struggling with sports-related anxiety can benefit from knowing there is more to life than sports.
Prioritizing other activities. Sometimes teens just want to be teens, not athletes. Make sure your teen has time to participate in academic, creative, and social outlets.
Emphasizing the “small wins.” Talk about the rewards of physical activity, teamwork, and having fun, regardless of the final score.
Supporting their decisions. Sometimes playing a sport may become physically or mentally unhealthy. If your teen wants to take a break, offer support. Remind them that their identity is more than their sport.
While playing sports has many benefits, it can also come with pressure. If your teen is feeling stressed on or off the field, one of the best ways to help them navigate anxiety is to let them share their feelings.
For more information about mental health, self-care strategies, and where to find help, visit ibx.com/knowyourmind.
