College Coaches Addressing Mental Health of Their Student-Athletes

Abstract

Mental health has been a hot topic of discussion across many NCAA college campuses. Student-athletes are speaking out about the high demands that are placed on them, whether they are competing at the DI level, DII, or DIII level. These demands are negatively effecting student-athletes mental health. In this synthesis project, the literature reviewed looked into college coaches’ role in addressing their student-athletes’ mental health. College coaches spend a large amount of time with their teams and research has shown that their role and attitude is essential. This literature review also showed that coaches are in a vital position to support their student-athletes with Mental Health Issues (MHIs). Coaches’ who have positive relationships with their student-athletes, create a stigma free team environment, and who are actively trying to increase their Mental Health Literacy (MHL) are better suited to help their student-athletes who are struggling.