@MentalHealthAm A8. An embedded team clinician. Many health insurance sites have directories that are searchable by zip code. Coaches may have referral lists. High School athletes can reach out to guidance counselors. Colleges have campus counseling centers. #b4stage4chat#NFLTotalWellness
This is part of it! Let's talk about mental health with athletes every chance we get. The more we normalize the conversation the more likely they are to reach out when in need and do the work to take care of their mental wellness daily. #b4stage4chat#nfltotalwellness
@MentalHealthAm A7. Be proactive. Mental Health is not just about something going "wrong". Educating athletes about creating routines that help them maintain optimal mental health in advance of a "problem" is a great decision. #b4stage4chat#NFLTotalWellness
@MentalHealthAm A6. Continued: Coaches who are honest about their own mental health challenges also help this conversation go a long way. None of us are exempt. #b4stage4chat#NFLTotalWellness
@MentalHealthAm A6. Inviting a therapist to talk to their team is a great start. Many times just allowing one of us to come and talk about these issues significantly reduces the stigma associated with getting support. #b4stage4chat#NFLTotalWellness
@MentalHealthAm A5. Many athletes have played their respective sport since they were children. Some athletes struggle to create a "new normal" after they stop playing. It can mean a significant change to their social circle and a loss of identity. #b4stage4chat#NFLTotalWellness
@MentalHealthAm A4. Normalizing the conversation around seeking help. Education is essential. Inviting counselors to speak to teams. Coaches who encourage their players to seek support of counselors usually have players that get that help. #b4stage4chat#NFLTotalWellness
@MentalHealthAm A3: Many athletes believe they are supposed to be "superhuman". Some think seeking help is a sign of weakness. Some also fear being seen as unreliable or incapable of performing well if they disclose a mental health challenge. #b4stage4chat#NFLTotalWellness
@MentalHealthAm A2. Examples of mental health challenges that athletes can experience can include, but are not limited to, performance anxiety, depression regarding injuries, insomnia, and being withdrawn or isolated. #b4stage4chat#NFLTotalWellness
@MentalHealthAm A1. Athletes are private people with very public jobs. Navigating those two worlds can pose challenges that need specialized supports. #b4stage4chat#NFLTotalWellness