"Breaking the stigma starts at home. Mental health is just as important as physical health."
As parents, coaches, and mentors, we encourage student-athletes to push through pain, be resilient, and show toughness. But what happens when the pain isn’t physical? What happens when the pressure to perform, the fear of failure, and the weight of expectations become too much?
In The 5th Quarter: A Parent’s Guide to Preparing Student-Athletes for Life Beyond the Game, I discuss the silent struggles many athletes face—stress, anxiety, depression, and burnout. These challenges are real, but too often, they go unnoticed or ignored.
The Hidden Mental Toll of College Athletics
Many student-athletes are balancing more than just school and sports:
✅ Demanding schedules—6 AM workouts, classes, practice, study hall, meetings, and travel.
✅ Relentless pressure—Coaches, teammates, family, and fans all expecting peak performance.
✅ Fear of speaking up—Worried that admitting stress, anxiety, or depression could impact playing time or scholarships.
They’re taught to push through everything, but mental health isn’t something you can just "tough out."
What Parents Must Ask During Recruitment
When considering a college for your child, don’t just ask about facilities, scholarships, and playing time. Ask about mental health resources.
- Is there a licensed sports psychologist available?
- What mental health services does the athletic department provide?
- How do coaches handle players struggling with stress, anxiety, or depression?
If a school doesn’t take mental health seriously, that’s a red flag. Your child’s well-being must come first.
Creating a Culture of Support
The conversation starts with us. Parents and mentors must teach student-athletes that:
- It’s okay to ask for help.
- Their identity is bigger than their sport.
- Their mental health matters just as much as their performance.
The game will end one day—but their well-being is forever.
📖 For more guidance on protecting your student-athlete, read The 5th Quarter: A Parent’s Guide to Preparing Student-Athletes for Life Beyond the Game.