Why Supporting Mental Health and Well-Being Among Student-Athletes Matters
The mental health of our student-athletes is a priority for us. Find out why we are adamant about supporting mental health and well-being among student-athletes through a holistic approach.
Student-athletes stand at a unique intersection where they must strive for excellence in two distinct areas: challenging academics and competitive sports. To achieve success in both, high school athletes must balance rigorous schedules, intense pressure, and high expectations.
While athletic participation at the high school level offers numerous benefits – such as teamwork, discipline, and physical fitness – it can also present challenges that may impact mental health. This is why supporting mental health and well-being among student-athletes is a top priority for our school.
At St. Agnes Academy, we're dedicated to nurturing the whole student. By combining athletic and academic support systems, we ensure our student-athletes have the tools and resources needed to thrive holistically, not just in the classroom or on the field – but in both!
Here’s why we are so adamant about developing support systems that help our students reach their highest potential during these powerful years on campus.
The Mental Health Challenges Student-Athletes Face
Participating in high school athletics while managing academic responsibilities can be both exciting and overwhelming. You may not feel the weight every day, but some days can be extremely challenging.
For example, you may have a big mid-term the same day as a tough game against a rival opponent. How do you balance the needs of preparing for both? Without the right approach and support system, you may feel overwhelmed or stressed.
In fact, some of the most common mental health challenges faced by today’s student-athletes include the following:
- Stress and Anxiety: The pressure to perform well academically and athletically often leads to significant mental strain.
- Time Management Struggles: Juggling practice schedules, games, schoolwork, family obligations, and friendships can create a demanding daily routine.
- Fatigue and Burnout: Sustained physical and mental exertion can lead to burnout without proper rest, breaks, and support systems in place.
- Self-Esteem Issues: Public evaluations and competition standards may contribute to feelings of inadequacy if you slip up in the competitive arena.
In fact, a recent study found that self-pressure (67%) and fear of failure (64%) are the two most common causes of stress among high school athletes.
These challenges underscore the importance of a comprehensive support framework for student-athletes. Here’s how we approach mental wealth for our student-athletes.
How We’re Supporting Mental Health and Well-Being Among Student-Athletes
At St. Agnes, we view mental health as a crucial foundation for success. We’ve built an integrated program that addresses the multifaceted needs of student-athletes through both the Tiger Athletics Department and Student Support Services.
Together, these programs reinforce stress management, mental resilience, and academic growth. Here are five ways we support the mental health and well-being of our student-athletes.
1. Stress Management Tools
We help students develop approaches to handle stress effectively. Through specialized workshops, counseling sessions, and relaxation techniques, we ensure our athletes can manage pressure in both their sports and academics.
One example is our Wellness Workshops, where students learn practical skills like breathing exercises and mindfulness practices.
2. Fostering Self-Esteem and Confidence
The inner voice can lift up or tear down an athlete during difficult and challenging game environments. Our Wellness Counselors work one-on-one with students to identify their strengths, build self-esteem, and foster positive self-talk.
We believe in the power of this programming to enhance self-image and foster a healthy team culture, ultimately bolstering your self-confidence – no matter how the game plays out.
3. Time Management Skills
Balancing a full academic load at St. Agnes with athletic commitments requires excellent time management. Our Student Success Center offers guidance on prioritizing tasks, creating schedules, and minimizing procrastination, even using tools like planners and apps.
Our staff works closely together to ensure that each student has the structure they need to set themselves up for success.
4. Study Skills and Academic Strategies
We go beyond just supporting athletic achievements by closely aligning our mental health professionals and student success coaches with our student-athletes to enhance their learning capabilities.
From providing study techniques to helping with test prep, we aim to ensure that athletes can excel in the classroom just as much as they do on the field.
5. Support with Accommodations
For athletes with learning difficulties or who need emotional support, we offer tailored accommodations, like extended test durations, note-taking assistance, or quieter testing environments. We also welcome therapy dogs on campus to support our students!
Our goal is to ensure a fair learning and testing environment where every student can perform to the best of their abilities in the classroom.
Benefits of a Holistic Support System
Why do these initiatives matter, and what results do we see when mental health and academic success are prioritized? Here are some proven benefits you can expect from our support system:
- Improved Performance: With mental resilience, student-athletes perform better in games and academics.
- Enhanced Confidence: Positive self-esteem leads to greater courage and focus in competitive situations when the game is on the line.
- Greater Balance: Managing time and stress effectively allows students to enjoy the high school experience rather than feeling overburdened.
- Lasting Life Skills: The lessons you develop now will stay with you well after high school, preparing you for future challenges in college and beyond.
Get Involved in Tiger Athletics – We Have Your Back
At St. Agnes, we don’t operate in silos. Our holistic approach ensures that you are completely supported from an athletic, academic, and wellness perspective, allowing you to excel in your pursuits.
By participating in Tiger Athletics, students build lasting friendships, develop resilience, and pursue passions in a supportive environment. We encourage our students to find a sport they are passionate about and discover the incredible benefits of representing their school.
Our staff is in your corner by supporting mental health and well-being among student-athletes to help you reach your full potential. Find out how to join a team today!
