There is a stigma that surrounds mental health and the idea of therapy, and this stigma is oftentimes compounded for athletes. In a profession where you are expected to be mentally tough, it can be difficult to admit when you are not at your best, but college athletes have a lot on their plate between academic deadlines, practices with long hours, traveling for competitions, and possibly even working a part-time job. Having this kind of schedule is no easy feat and can be draining to anyone!
Related: 19 Signs That Your Teammate is Struggling With Their Mental Health
Admitting that you need help being the best you can be is not a sign of weakness, but one of strength. It is important to be aware of your mental health and what you need to help yourself, which might include attending therapy sessions.Here are a few ways therapy can positively impact your emotional wellbeing as a college athlete:
Gain a greater sense of self
Visits with a therapist can help college students gain a better sense of understanding of who they are and what their purpose is. It will not be the answer to solve all of your problems, but working with a therapist can help make better sense of your feelings and manage your reactions when faced with stressful situations. Learning more about your emotions and how they influence your actions will also help give you a better understanding of the actions of those around you.
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Manage bad habits
Between almost daily practices, competitions, and academic deadlines, college athletes are more prone to stress and breakdowns of mental health. Working with a therapist can help set you on the right path and put everything into perspective.
Relief from depression or anxiety
For athletes, much of their self-worth stems from performance, and if they do not measure up to either their own expectations or their coaches, it can lead to self-esteem issues or depression. So many different causes can be prevalent in athletes, such as performance pressures or burnout. It can be normal to experience anxiety before competitions, but if it lingers long after the matches have passed, it can disrupt daily routines and academics. Therapy can provide athletes with a sense of relief and help get them back on track.
Related: 3 Teletherapy Resources for LGBTQ+ Student-Athletes
Improved body image
Negative body image is prevalent among college students and can especially affect college athletes. Coaches will often instruct players on how to maintain their weight, whether it be to gain or lose. These critiques can in turn distort an athlete's view of their own body and may create body image issues or eating disorders down the line, but a therapist can help prevent this from happening by helping you build a healthy relationship with food, exercise, and body image.
You should not be afraid to seek out help when you need it. Most college campuses have wonderful resources for mental health and wellbeing – from counseling sessions to wellness centers where you can simply sit and recharge.
Here are some helpful resources if you need more immediate assistance with your mental health:
National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 800-273-8255
American Psychiatric Foundation
Anxiety and Depression Association of America
National Alliance on Mental Illness
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* Originally published on December 7, 2022, by Kelly Wick