Mental Health in Sports Infographic

Quick look at common stressors, benefits, and reflection prompts for student-athletes

Common Athletic Stressors

• Competition Pressure: 62% of student-athletes report anxiety before big games or meets.

• Injury & Recovery: 45% experience elevated stress levels when sidelined by injury.

• Academic-Athletic Balance: 70% feel overwhelmed trying to juggle practice and schoolwork.

Benefits of Sports Participation

• Enhanced Mood & Well-Being: 80% of athletes use training or competition as a healthy stress outlet.

• Stronger Social Support: 75% feel connected through teamwork and camaraderie.

• Resilience & Goal-Setting: 68% develop perseverance skills that carry over to everyday challenges.

Reflection Prompts

1. Which stressor resonates most with you and why?

1. Which benefit do you value most, and how does it show up in your life?

1. Based on this data, name one strategy you can try to manage stress during your next practice or game.

Use this infographic to guide your journal entries or group discussions about mental health and athletics.

Athlete Mindfulness Script (7 minutes)

1. Settling In (1 minute)

Teacher: “Alright team, let’s get ready for our mindfulness exercise. Please sit comfortably with your feet flat on the floor and your hands resting gently on your thighs. Soften your gaze or close your eyes if that feels okay. Take a moment to notice the sounds around you and how your body feels—no need to change anything, just observe.”

2. Deep Breathing (2 minutes)

Teacher: “Now bring your attention to your breath. Inhale slowly through your nose for a count of four… (pause and count aloud) 1…2…3…4… then exhale fully through your mouth for a count of six… 1…2…3…4…5…6. Let’s do that three more times together. Ready? Inhale…1…2…3…4… Exhale…1…2…3…4…5…6… (repeat two more cycles).”

3. Body Scan (2 minutes)

Teacher: “Keep breathing naturally and turn your focus inward. First, notice your feet—any tension? Let it soften. Move your awareness up to your ankles, shins, and knees. Relax. Shift to your thighs and hips—release any tightness there. Now to your lower back, mid-back, and shoulders. Let your shoulders drop away from your ears. Feel your arms, hands, and fingers relax. Finally, bring attention to your neck, head, and face. Unclench your jaw and smooth your forehead. Stay here with a few gentle breaths.”

4. Positive Performance Imagery (1.5 minutes)

Teacher: “With your body relaxed, picture yourself in your favorite sport scenario—on the field, court, or track. Hear the sounds: teammates calling, the ball bouncing or whistle blowing. See yourself moving confidently, making sharp passes, hitting your mark, or crossing the finish line. Feel your muscles strong and your mind calm. Really soak in that feeling of focus and success.”

5. Closing & Transition (30 seconds)

Teacher: “When you’re ready, begin to bring your awareness back to the room. Gently wiggle your fingers and toes. Take one more deep breath in… and let it out. Open your eyes or lift your gaze. Excellent work—carry this calm, focused energy into your next practice or game.”

Optional: Play soft instrumental music during this exercise or maintain quiet to support concentration.

Mindful Exit Ticket

Name: _____________________ Date: ___________

Reflect on today’s lesson and share your insights. Answer each question in the space provided.

1. Identify one athletic stressor you recognize in your own experience and describe one coping strategy you will try next time.

1. Of the mindfulness techniques we practiced (deep breathing, body scan, positive performance imagery), which one did you find most helpful and why?

1. How will you integrate this mindfulness practice into your next practice, game, or daily routine to support your mental well-being and performance?

Thank you for your thoughtful responses—carry these insights into your athletic journey!