Mental illness is a prevalent and significant issue among teenagers. While sports and physical activity offer fantastic mental health benefits, young athletes are not exempt from the ongoing mental health crisis.
In fact, the competitive nature of athletics, along with factors like perfectionism, external pressures to perform, and severe injuries, may increase the risk of mental illness. Prioritizing mental health and well-being not only helps young athletes feel better, but also has important benefits for performance and reducing the risk of illness and injury.
Creating a safe environment that encourages ongoing conversations about mental health is the most important thing parents can do for their child.
Let your child know that they can confide in you without judgment. Emphasize that mental health is just as important as physical health. The goal is to normalize discussions about mental health. Take the initiative to bring up the topic yourself and make yourself available whenever your child wants to talk.
Be aware of symptoms of anxiety, which can include:
- Significant worries about future events
- Constant concerns about family, school, friends, or activities
- Fear of embarrassment or making mistakes
- Low self-esteem and lack of self-confidence
Symptoms of depression may include:
- Feeling or appearing depressed, sad, tearful, or irritable
- Loss of interest in friends, academics, or activities
- Changes in appetite and/or weight
- Sleeping more or less than usual; having difficulty concentrating
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
If you believe your child is struggling with their mental health, have a conversation with them and help them seek assistance.
Encourage athletes to talk to you, other family members, friends, and healthcare providers. You can also reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (9-8-8).
If you believe your child is experiencing a mental health emergency (expressing an intent to harm themselves or others), call 911 or go to the emergency department.
Remember, if you have any questions or concerns about your child’s mental health, don’t hesitate to speak with your pediatrician.
ABOUT THE WRITER
Drew Watson, MD, MS, FAAP is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics Council on Sports Medicine & Fitness. He practices pediatric sports medicine within the Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin–Madison, and is a team physician for the university’s athletic department.
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