Sports and Therapy: A Mental Health Guide for Young Athletes and Their Supporting Moms

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH:

Did you know May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to spotlight the importance of psychological well-being and mental strength. I often remind my clients that therapy isn’t about weakness, it’s about completeness. Being strong physically, doesn’t mean you are strong mentally, you have to do the work to get there. That’s why I focus on getting young athletes and their mothers the support they need. 

The unique pressures faced by  athletes—rigorous schedules, strict diets, and high expectations—require immense mental resilience, which is often overshadowed by their physical prowess. In my 20 years serving high achievers I’ve found that both young athletes and their supportive moms need dedicated therapy to thrive in life and in sports.

Part 1: The Psychological Landscape of Young Athletes

Young athletes face a demanding lifestyle that goes beyond intense physical training. The expectation to maintain peak performance can lead to stringent diets, early morning wake-ups, and a significant sacrifice of personal and social time. This lifestyle can take a toll on a young athlete mentally and emotionally. They may resent their talent, the expectations placed on them, and may often see other teens and siblings as lucky they don’t have to experience it. 

A study published in the Journal of Applied Sport Psychology reveals that athletes report higher levels of stress and anxiety related to performance compared to non-athletes. The data underscores the need for psychological support to manage the pressures that come with competitive sports.

Athletes are often celebrated for their strength and endurance, but the mental fortitude required to maintain such discipline is frequently underestimated. The pressure to constantly perform at their best can lead to anxiety, depression, and even burnout. This is where therapy plays a crucial role. Effective mental health support helps athletes develop coping strategies, enhance focus, and maintain motivation, contributing to both their performance and overall well-being.

Part 2: The Role of Moms in Athlete's Mental Health

Behind many dedicated athletes, there is often a supportive mom, ensuring that schedules are maintained and emotional needs are met. Whether it’s their own mom or a friend's mom who has decided to take on the responsibility. These moms do much more than manage logistics, and prepare food. They provide essential emotional support during both triumphs, setbacks, and injury. 

However, the relentless commitment to their athlete's career can strain their own mental health. The burden of continuously supporting another, while managing personal and possibly professional responsibilities, can be overwhelming. Many moms have put their own dreams and desires aside to support their child.

It is vital for athlete moms to have access to therapy and a supportive community that understands their unique challenges. Participating in a therapy group not only helps them manage their stress but also connects them with peers facing similar pressures. Sharing experiences and strategies can alleviate feelings of isolation, providing both support and validation.

A Special Invitation for Sports Moms

In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, we are offering sports moms a free 30-day trial to our SelfSync Therapy Group. This platform provides daily therapy and support tailored to the needs of athlete moms, facilitated by me, Kiné Corder, the leading National Certified Counselor specializing in performance and financial therapy. This is an excellent opportunity for moms to prioritize their mental health and connect with a community that truly understands their journey.

Both young athletes and their moms navigate a challenging environment that demands not only physical but also mental and emotional resilience. The support provided by therapy and community groups is invaluable in managing these demands effectively. As we observe Mental Health Awareness Month, let us remember the importance of mental health in achieving not only athletic success but also a balanced and fulfilling life.

The SelfSync Therapy philosophy is that everyone needs a therapist, especially the high achieving athlete. Therapy helps athletes prevent, manage, and recover from injury and that’s why it’s so important. We encourage both athletes and their moms to seek the mental health support they need, so that they are not alone in their journey. With the right resources and community support, they can continue to thrive both on the field and in life.
I’ll share more free mental health tips all month long, but here is one video that may help you understand why athletes need therapy, click here.