Mental health is a serious issue, but a lot of athletes don't want to tell their coach when they're struggling because they think it makes them look weak, they feel they can tough it out on their own, or they just don't trust their coach. However, most times, the best thing an athlete can do is be honest with their coach about what is going on. If you need a push, here's a list of tips to help you approach your coach about your mental health to ease some of the anxiety that goes along with that conversation.
Related: Mental Health Illness in Collegiate Athletics
- Decide if you can trust your coach.
Step one is to establish trust. If you can't trust your coach you may reconsider opening up to them. If you don't trust them, try and find an assistant coach, trainer, or faculty member you do trust or consider confiding in an on-campus mental health professional instead.
- Talk to them in private.
There's nothing worse than trying to talk about something vulnerable with people around. You can be worried about their reaction, who might overhear, and who could walk up and interrupt you. So make sure you're in private where you're not going to be interrupted when bringing up what can be a delicate topic.
Related: 3 Ways Colleges Can Help Improve Athlete's Mental Health
- Talk outside of practice.
Poor mental health may feel overwhelming during practice, so try to wait until after or be proactive and go before to talk to your coach. If you're interrupting a practice, a coach might try and rush you or not take your mental health as seriously as they should. The best route is to contact them and ask to set up a time to talk outside of your practice.
- Be honest about how you're feeling.
Don't lie about what is going on or the severity of it all. If you are honest, chances are better that your coach will listen and help you. Letting them know everything is how you are going to be able to establish that trust and more accurately find the help you need. But remember, your coach isn't a therapist so share only as much as you're comfortable with.
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- Tell them what you think they can do to help.
Sometimes we think our coaches know everything, but only you know how you are feeling. People respond differently to mental health, and so if you know of anything you need in particular be honest about it.
- Ask about what resources they are aware of.
Coaches are well versed in the resources available to athletes, especially if your coach has been with the school for a few years or longer. Ask them if they know of any resources available. If they come up empty, ask around the athletic department or seek out mental health resources on campus.
- Keep the line of communication open.
Be open about your mental health. Don't think just because you spoke once it is going to resolve itself. The path back to complete mental health is long, and will take time. Let your coach know if you're progressing or if things seem to be getting worse.
Talking to your coach about mental health can feel scary, but it shouldn't be. The conversation is an important one to have and can be a success to start the path to finding help.
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* Originally published on August 30, 2022, by Claire Borman
