Athletes are often seen as strong, confident, and healthy, so it can be easy to miss when one is struggling. Athletes face the same mental health challenges as everyone else, plus pressures that are unique to sport. The good news: early support makes a real difference.
Pressures athletes face
- Performance pressure, selection, and the fear of letting people down.
- Injury, and the loss of routine and identity that can come with it.
- Balancing training with school, friends, and sleep.
- Transitions, like changing teams, moving up an age group, or leaving a sport.
- Body image pressure in some sports, and comparison on social media.
Signs to watch for
- Losing interest in a sport they used to love.
- Pulling away from friends, teammates, or family.
- Changes in sleep, appetite, or energy.
- Irritability, tearfulness, or worry that doesn't go away.
- Harsh self-talk, or not being able to let go of mistakes.
- Frequent headaches or stomach aches with no clear cause.
- Changes in eating, or worry about weight or their body.
- Low mood that hangs on after an injury.
One sign on its own isn't a cause for alarm. What matters is a change from normal that lasts more than a couple of weeks, or that gets in the way of school, sleep, or daily life.
How to start the conversation
- Pick a calm moment, not straight after a game or race.
- Lead with care: "I've noticed you seem down lately. How are you doing?"
- Listen more than you talk, and don't rush to fix it.
- Let them know it's okay not to be okay, and that you're on their side.
- Make it clear that their worth has nothing to do with results.
When to get help
If things aren't improving, or you're worried, reach out. Your family doctor is a good first step, and a registered counsellor or psychologist can help athletes and families. Sport-focused practitioners understand the pressures athletes face. You can also let your athlete's coach know, so training feels supportive while they get help.
If your athlete talks about suicide or hurting themselves, or you're worried about their safety, get help right away. Call or text 9-8-8 any time, or call 911 in an emergency.
Canadian resources
Where to go next
Canadian organizations and experts who can help athletes and families go further.
Canadian Centre for Mental Health and Sport
Sport-focused mental health care for competitive athletes and coaches, from practitioners who understand sport.
BC Association of Clinical Counsellors
Search for a registered clinical counsellor in BC by location, approach, and language.
Kids Help Phone
Free, confidential support for young people, any time, by phone, text, or online chat.
If you or your athlete are really struggling, you don't have to wait. Call or text 988 any time, or young people can reach Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868 or by texting CONNECT to 686868. In an emergency, call 911.
Sources
This guide is general information, not medical advice. Talk to a health professional about your own situation.
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