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For student athletes, mental wellness is a game changer

by Kaiser Permanente |
Young Black woman on a track, in the set position at the start of a race.

A sports medicine physician and mental health therapist discuss the mind-body connection — and how to ensure a safe sports season.

Many student athletes report feeling tired, anxious, and depressed, according to a study from the National Collegiate Athletic Association.

Athletes usually focus on physical health, but it’s also important to pay attention to mental wellness. 

“An athlete struggling with depression, anxiety, or everyday stress may have poor concentration and low energy, which can affect performance on the field and result in injury,” said William Moore, MD, a sports medicine physician for Kaiser Permanente in Northern California. Dr. Moore works with athletes in high school and college.

Poor mental health can have serious effects off the field, too. 

“Athletes in a poor mental state are at higher risk for burnout and losing interest in their sport. They’re also more at risk for alcohol and drug abuse,” said Heather Duong, PhD, a Northern California mental health therapist for Kaiser Permanente, who treats young athletes.

Both clinicians share how athletes, parents, and coaches can have a safe sports season. 

It’s OK to not be OK

Many athletes have been taught not to show fear or anxiety. Duong tells her patients to talk about what’s going on inside. This can also help make others feel comfortable sharing. 

“When my patients talk about their struggles, it empowers them,” Duong said.

Sharing how you feel with a coach, friend, or parent is the first step. 

Build a self-care toolbox

Duong encourages her patients to develop self-management skills. These skills can help them better handle challenges in school, sports, or their social lives. 

“Having a mental health toolbox to pull from whenever you face a stressor is powerful,” Duong said. This can include:

  • Deep breathing exercises
  • Visualization
  • Meditation
  • Therapy or medication (if needed)

Digital apps like Calm and Headspace are also useful. Calm can be used by Kaiser Permanente members 13 and over. The Headspace app and services are available to members 18 and over.* 

A mental health toolbox supports a healthy routine. Athletes should also:

  • Get enough sleep
  • Eat healthy foods
  • Limit screen time 

It’s not all about winning

Focus on the journey and not the result. 

Dr. Moore has coached youth baseball and basketball. He tells athletes not to be too hard on themselves when they aren’t performing well. “Parents and coaches need to teach young people that it’s not all about winning,” said Dr. Moore. “It’s about finding the best version of ourselves through sports.”

Learn more about mental health and wellness at Kaiser Permanente. 

*The apps and services described above are not covered under your health plan benefits, are not a Medicare-covered benefit, and are not subject to the terms set forth in your Evidence of Coverage or other plan documents. The apps and services may be discontinued at any time. The apps and services are neither offered nor guaranteed under contract with the FEHB Program, but are made available to enrollees and family members who become members of Kaiser Permanente. Some individuals who receive health care services from Kaiser Permanente through state Medicaid programs are not eligible for the Headspace app and services. The Headspace app and services are not available to anyone enrolled in a Fee-for-Service Medicaid program. Eligible Kaiser Permanente members can text with a coach using the Headspace app for 90 days per year. After the 90 days, members can continue to access the other services available on the Headspace app for the remainder of the year at no cost. Calm and Headspace are not available to Kaiser Permanente Dental-only members.

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