Athlete Mental Health Scenarios

Use one of the scenarios below in your small-group activity. Read carefully, then identify the athlete’s emotional challenge(s), discuss possible causes, and brainstorm two supportive strategies.

Scenario 1: Maya’s Pre-Game Jitters

Maya is the star point guard on her school’s basketball team. Before every big game, she feels her heart pound, her hands shake, and her mind go blank. Lately, she’s been avoiding team practice because she’s afraid she’ll mess up in front of everyone.

Challenges to discuss:

• Performance anxiety and fear of failure
• Avoidance of supportive teammates due to embarrassment

Scenario 2: Carlos’s Comeback from Injury

Carlos, a competitive swimmer, tore his shoulder three months ago. He’s physically healed but feels isolated on deck, watching teammates race without him. He worries he’ll never reach his previous speed and often sits alone during practice.

Challenges to discuss:

• Fear of not returning to past performance levels
• Feelings of isolation and low self-esteem

Scenario 3: Jada’s Online Criticism

Jada is a track athlete who recently posted a video of her finishing first in a regional meet. After the post, she received negative comments online about her form and appearance. She now hesitates to share results and avoids checking messages.

Challenges to discuss:

• Impact of public scrutiny and social media pressure
• Rising self-doubt and withdrawal from positive feedback

Scenario 4: Alex’s Balancing Act

Alex runs cross-country and takes advanced math and science courses. Lately, late practices and homework deadlines leave him exhausted. He’s started losing interest in running, misses assignments, and feels guilty when he relaxes.

Challenges to discuss:

• Burnout from juggling academics and athletics
• Guilt and perfectionism leading to stress

Scenario 5: Priya’s High Expectations

Priya trains in gymnastics and has a reputation for nailing difficult skills. Her coach praises her publicly, and her parents set strict performance goals. Behind the smiles, Priya feels constant pressure to be perfect and fears disappointing everyone if she makes a mistake.

Challenges to discuss:

• Pressure to meet external expectations
• Fear of letting others down and suppressed emotions

Choose one scenario per group. Together, identify the key emotional challenges, discuss root causes (pressure, injury, stigma), and propose two ways teammates or friends can offer support.

Mental Health Fact Sheet

Mental health is just as important as physical health. Strong mental well-being helps athletes perform at their best and enjoy their sport.

Why It Matters for Athletes

• Performance Pressure: Training, competitions, and expectations can cause stress and anxiety.
• Public Scrutiny: Athletes often face criticism from coaches, peers, and online audiences.
• Injury & Recovery: Physical setbacks can lead to feelings of isolation and doubt.

Key Statistics

• 35% of youth athletes report anxiety related to competition.
• 1 in 5 high school athletes has experienced symptoms of depression.
• 60% of athletes avoid seeking help due to stigma around mental health.
• Talking with a trusted person can reduce stress by 50%.

Signs an Athlete May Be Struggling

• Frequent mood swings or irritability
• Withdrawal from teammates or social activities
• Drop in motivation or performance slump
• Changes in sleep, appetite, or energy levels

Strategies to Support Well-Being

• Active Listening: Give full attention, validate feelings, and avoid judgment.
• Encourage Breaks: Promote rest, hobbies, or mindfulness exercises (deep breathing, meditation).
• Set Realistic Goals: Help athletes break big targets into small, manageable steps.
• Foster Connection: Encourage talking with coaches, teammates, family, or a school counselor.
• Share Resources: Remind them of hotlines, online help centers, or local support groups.

Where to Go for Help

• School Counselor or trusted teacher
• Mental Health Hotlines: e.g., National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988)
• Online Resources: Mental health websites and athlete-focused support programs

Remember: Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Reflection Worksheet

Use this space to reflect on what you learned about mental health in sports and how you can support yourself and others.

1. One New Insight
Write one new thing you learned about athletes’ mental health challenges or supportive strategies during today’s activity.

2. Personal Support Strategy
Describe one concrete strategy you can use to support a friend, teammate, or classmate who may be struggling with their mental well-being.

3. Goal for Your Own Well-Being
Set a specific, achievable goal to care for your own mental health over the next week (e.g., practice a relaxation technique, talk with a trusted adult, schedule downtime).

4. Apply & Share (Optional Extension)
Think of someone at school or on your team who might benefit from support. Briefly explain how you might reach out to them and what strategy you would share.