mental health Archives - Athletes for Hope

Beyond the Game: Protecting the Mental Health of Young Athletes

Posted: July 28, 2025 Updated: July 31, 2025 by Jasmine Moore

Mena Mirhom, MD, FAPA

Chief Wellbeing Officer, Athletes For Hope

In recent years, the conversation around mental health in sports has shifted significantly. High-profile athletes such as Simone Biles, Naomi Osaka, and Michael Phelps have spoken openly about their mental health struggles, helping to break down the long-standing belief that mental toughness equates to emotional invincibility. While this progress has opened critical dialogue at the elite level, many young athletes in youth, high school, and collegiate sports continue to suffer in silence.

For coaches, parents, and others involved in youth athletics, understanding the early signs of mental health distress and knowing how to respond has become essential. Mental health is not separate from physical health; it is a critical foundation for athletic performance and long-term well-being.

The Hidden Mental Health Risks in Youth Sports

Mental health disorders are highly prevalent among young people, and athletes are not exempt from these challenges. Research suggests that athletes may actually face equal or greater risk due to the intense pressures associated with sports. A systematic review published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that up to 34 percent of elite athletes experience symptoms of anxiety or depression, a rate that matches or exceeds that of the general population. Similarly, data from the National Institute of Mental Health indicates that one in three adolescents between the ages of 13 and 18 will experience an anxiety disorder, and participation in competitive sports can sometimes intensify these risks, particularly in environments that foster perfectionism or excessive pressure.

Mental health issues in athletes often go unrecognized because the symptoms are subtle. Instead of verbalizing emotional distress, young athletes may present with physical complaints, changes in performance, or behavioral shifts. A study in the Journal of Adolescent Health found that athletes experiencing depression often report symptoms such as fatigue, sleep disturbances, and vague physical discomfort, symptoms that can easily be mistaken for the natural physical demands of sports rather than indicators of psychological strain.

Overtraining represents another risk factor, particularly when combined with perfectionistic tendencies. A study published in Sports Health linked overtraining syndrome with higher rates of anxiety, depression, and even suicidal ideation. The pursuit of excellence, when taken to extremes, can lead to burnout, emotional exhaustion, and an increased risk of mental health deterioration.

Stigma and the Silence Surrounding Mental Health in Sports

One of the most persistent barriers to addressing mental health in athletics is stigma. Many athletes are raised in cultures that equate emotional struggle with weakness, which discourages them from seeking help even when they are in distress. Research published in the Journal of Clinical Sport Psychology demonstrates that athletes are significantly less likely than non-athletes to seek mental health care, even when experiencing clear symptoms of depression or anxiety. The fear of being perceived as “soft” or losing playing time often prevents athletes from reaching out until their difficulties escalate into crises.

Substance use can also arise as a maladaptive coping mechanism among athletes. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse’s Monitoring the Future study, approximately 23 percent of high school seniors report engaging in binge drinking. The unique pressures of sports environments may further increase the likelihood of risky behaviors, adding another layer of concern for coaches and parents.

Building a Culture of Mental Wellness in Athletics

To effectively support the mental health of young athletes, a cultural shift is necessary. Coaches, parents, and athletic staff play a central role in creating environments where mental health is valued alongside physical performance. Several evidence-based principles can guide this approach.

First, conversations about mental health should be normalized. Just as physical injuries are discussed and treated, mental well-being should be addressed as part of routine care. Initiatives like the NCAA’s “Mind, Body, and Sport” program provide useful models for integrating mental health education into athletic settings.

Second, help-seeking should be encouraged from the top down. Research from Psychology of Sport and Exercise has shown that when coaches and team leaders model openness about mental health, athletes are significantly more likely to seek support when needed.

Third, recognizing the athlete as a whole person is crucial. Encouraging rest, recovery, and life balance not only supports well-being but can also enhance performance. A meta-analysis in Sports Medicine concluded that sufficient sleep and mental recovery are directly associated with improved athletic outcomes and reduced injury rates.

Fourth, there must be clear pathways for mental health referrals. Coaches and parents should be equipped to recognize the warning signs and know how to connect athletes with appropriate mental health professionals when necessary.

Fifth, fostering an identity beyond the sport can protect against mental health decline, particularly in the event of injury or retirement from sports. Promoting academic, social, and creative pursuits can help athletes develop resilience and purpose outside of athletics. Research on athletic identity, such as studies published in the International Journal of Sport Psychology, underscores the psychological risks of an overly narrow identity tied solely to sport.

Organizations like Athletes for Hope are working to bridge this gap by encouraging athletes to connect with their communities, explore their passions beyond the game, and engage in conversations about mental health. Through workshops, advocacy, and peer support, Athletes for Hope promotes the idea that athletic success and emotional wellness can and should coexist.

Conclusion

Sports have the power to teach discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. Yet when mental health is overlooked, the very qualities that foster success on the field can contribute to quiet suffering off of it. Coaches and parents occupy a pivotal position in this landscape. By creating environments where mental health is discussed openly, addressed proactively, and valued equally with physical health, we can help ensure that athletes not only achieve success in their sport but also thrive in life beyond the game.

References

Brewer, B. W., Van Raalte, J. L., & Linder, D. E. (1993). Athletic identity: Hercules’ muscles or Achilles heel? International Journal of Sport Psychology, 24(2), 237–254.

Gouttebarge, V., Bindra, A., Blauwet, C., et al. (2021). Mental health symptoms and disorders in elite athletes: A systematic review on cultural influencers and barriers to treatment. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 55(11), 608–621. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2019-101669

Johnston, L. D., Miech, R. A., O’Malley, P. M., Bachman, J. G., Schulenberg, J. E., & Patrick, M. E. (2023). Monitoring the Future national survey results on drug use, 1975–2022: Overview, key findings on adolescent drug use. Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan.

Kreher, J. B., & Schwartz, J. B. (2012). Overtraining syndrome: A practical guide. Sports Health: A Multidisciplinary Approach, 4(2), 128–138. https://doi.org/10.1177/1941738111434406

Moreland, J. J., Coxe, K. A., & Yang, J. (2018). Collegiate athletes’ mental health help-seeking behavior and intentions: A systematic review of literature. Journal of Athletic Training, 53(5), 412–421. https://doi.org/10.4085/1062-6050-52.2.25 National Institute of Mental Health. (2017). Any Anxiety Disorder. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/any-anxiety-disorder

NCAA. (2014). Mind, Body and Sport: Understanding and Supporting Student-Athlete Mental Wellness. Retrieved from http://www.ncaa.org/sport-science-institute/mind-body-and-sport

Santomauro, D. F., Mantilla Herrera, A. M., Shadid, J., Zheng, P., Ashbaugh, C., Pigott, D. M., et al. (2019). Global prevalence and burden of depressive and anxiety disorders in 204 countries and territories, 1990–2019: A systematic analysis. Journal of Adolescent Health, 68(3), 400–408.

Walsh, N. P., Halson, S. L., Sargent, C., et al. (2021). Sleep and the elite athlete: A narrative review. Sports Medicine, 51(2), 253–270. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-020-01365-8

Watson, J. C. (2005). College student-athletes’ attitudes toward help-seeking behavior and expectations of counseling services. Journal of College Student Development, 46(4), 442–449. https://doi.org/10.1353/csd.2005.0044

AFH Announces Six Additional Mental Health Ambassadors

Posted: July 16, 2024 Updated: November 27, 2024 by kReeves

Athletes for Hope (AFH) is excited to announce the addition of six additional mental health ambassadors to its Whole Being Athlete program. This dynamic group of Olympic and professional athletes, hailing from a diverse array of sports, brings a wealth of experience and passion to the initiative. Their commitment to promoting mental health awareness in and out of the athletic community is set to make a significant impact, furthering AFH’s mission to inspire and empower athletes to give back to their communities.

Meet our new ambassadors below and get to know the 18 other ambassadors here.

Sierra is a professional soccer player for the San Diego Wave. She won a National Championship while playing at Stanford University in 2019 and was a two-year team captain. She is passionate about creating spaces for people to share experiences so that no one feels alone. Additionally, Sierra loves mentoring and speaking on identity, confidence and managing mistakes.

Cal (they/he) is a trans marathoner, inclusivity activist, educator, community builder, and poet. He competed at Saint Louis University, then went on to advocate for non-binary divisions in races. Cal won first place in the 2023 New York City Marathon, the 2022 San Francisco Marathon, and the 2024 Los Angeles Marathon. He took second place at the 2022 Chicago Marathon and the 2023 Boston Marathon. Cal wants to open up more conversations to destigmatize mental health at the intersection of various identities. Through storytelling, they believe we can generate more belonging and more hope for all athletes.

Manteo is an Olympic Silver Medalist, World and US Champion in track and field. He’s also a member of the US Bobsled team, where he’s aiming to make history by becoming just the 7th person to medal in both the Summer and Winter Games. He’d also become the very first African-American male to accomplish the feat! When he’s not chasing records, you can find him running around the world with his family. Manteo is an advocate for health and wellness. He spends most of his time away from training/competing as a motivational speaker and ambassador for many brands and causes with the youth and next generation.

Manteo Mitchell Bobsled and Track & Field

Matt began his football journey at Duke University, where he studied Psychology and Human Development. During his time at Duke, he became a three-year starter, captain, All-American, and All-ACC selection. Despite going undrafted, he launched his NFL career with the Baltimore Ravens, playing for eight years with four teams.

Through his academic and athletic experiences, Matt recognized the importance of strong mental health practices linked to high performance. His journey took a personal turn with the tragic loss of his father to suicide in March 2022. This pain fueled his passion to impact athletes at all levels, sharing his experiences with mental health and his athletic journey. Matt is dedicated to promoting resilience, awareness, and support for mental well-being in sports.

Isabelle “Izzy” Connor is a Tokyo 2021 Olympian in Rhythmic Gymnastics. She is a 5x Pan American Games medalist, multiple time World Cup and Grand Prix finalist and has been on 3 World Championship teams. Her team made history by achieving the first top-ten world championship ranking in US Rhythmic Gymnastics history. She trained and competed on the US national team from 2017 until her retirement in 2024. Izzy is pursuing a degree in Astrophysics at the University of California, Santa Cruz where she is a published student researcher. She also coaches young gymnasts. Having gone through her own struggles with anxiety and depression as an elite athlete, she has been a voice of advocacy and change within the culture of gymnastics, and in the athlete mental health movement. She is passionate about mentorship, furthering the mental health movement, and creating equity in STEM.

Blake played soccer at the University of Mary and retired from professional soccer in 2021.

He is dedicated to ending the stigma around mental health and advocating for those in need. As the creator of the INTRA blog and the Instagram page @intratogether, he actively engages in mental health initiatives with our partners, participates in community events, and shares advocacy messages on social media.

Despite aiming for a long-term professional soccer career, Blake faced mental health struggles such as self-doubt, depression, stress, and anxiety, which led to burnout and the decision to step away from the sport. Recognizing the growing impact of mental health issues on athletes, Blake aims to raise awareness through personal stories and relevant topics.

About Whole Being Athlete Ambassadors

Whole Being Athlete Ambassadors participate in mental health initiatives with our partners, join community events, and share advocacy messages on social media. They serve as a mental health advocates for various charities and organizations, engage in storytelling, and connect with other athlete ambassadors to discuss mental health concerns and resources.

AFH Athlete Spotlight: Abby Dunkin, PLY

Posted: June 21, 2024 Updated: November 27, 2024 by kReeves

In 2013, amidst the digital passageways of YouTube, Abby Dunkin began an extraordinary journey fueled by the electrifying spectacle of the Team USA Women’s Wheelchair Basketball team at the 2012 London Paralympics. After witnessing their athleticism, Dunkin was captivated, resulting in a newfound passion for the sport. Hailing from a military family, Dunkin was introduced to wheelchair basketball for the first time at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas. Among military personnel adjusting to their new way of life after serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, she discovered the San Antonio ParaSport Spurs, an all-military team. Thus, she began a journey leading to her collegiate competition and the illustrious ranks of Team USA.

Reflecting on her illustrious career, Abby Dunkin says her Gold medal triumph at the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games in one of her proudest moments. Even more so, she cherishes the friendships woven across continents throughout her professional and collegiate levels, embodying the essence of sports companionship.

Abby and another Wheelchair Basketball athlete posing together with an American flag around their shoulders. They are inside an indoor gym.

All of the friendships I’ve been able to create from the sport around the globe, will always mean more than any gold medal.
Abby Dunkin, PLY

Transitioning from athlete to mentor, Dunkin is now a coach with the Rollin’ Hornets in Charlotte, North Carolina, where she dedicates herself to nurturing the next generation of wheelchair basketball talent. Through Abilities Unlimited, a non-profit organization, she empowers youths with disabilities, fostering a sense of belonging and independence through adaptive sports.

“It’s been so great being able to see the growth in our youth athletes and them having the realization that they can compete in athletics at a high level. Not only the kids, but also seeing the parents realize that their child has a place to compete with kids with similar abilities, and learn lessons to be independent.”
Abby Dunkin, PLY

Abby posing with a youth wheelchair basketball player.

Her impact extends far beyond the court as she continues to champion inclusivity and advocate for the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. During the 2016 Rio Paralympics, Abby Dunkin was one of the few openly LGBTQ+ athletes competing in the games. At the time, she shares that she did not fully grasp the significance of her visibility, but she has since embraced her role as an advocate. She aligns with organizations like Athlete Ally, using her platform to champion equality within and beyond the realm of sport. Even after retiring in 2020, Dunkin’s advocacy work for Athlete Ally continues, ensuring that her impact on young athletes resonates far beyond her competitive years. She still participates in recreational competitions as part of their women’s team based in Charlotte, North Carolina, furthering her commitment to inclusivity and LGBTQ+ rights.

For Dunkin, the essence of service lies in sharing her story at various sports events – whether on the court, in corporate events, or community gatherings. Through Athlete Ally and local engagements, Dunkin illuminates the power of inclusivity, with a profound desire to amplify the engagement in more events revolving around mental health, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and bringing awareness to adaptive sports, specifically in Charlotte, North Carolina. Her advocacy work is a beacon of empowerment, inspiring others to make a difference in their communities.

Dunkin offers a profound directive to those embarking on the path of advocacy: “Start by finding a local organization that you connect with and truly believe in, and reach out to see what the best way is to get involved.”

Looking ahead, Dunkin envisions a future where every individual, regardless of identity or ability, finds their rightful place in the arenas of sport. Her long-term goals encompass a steadfast commitment to LGBTQ+ rights, mental health advocacy, and the proliferation of adaptive sports—a testament to her dedication to a more inclusive world. After following Abby Dunkin’s journey, her unwavering commitment to advocacy and service inspires change and embodies the transformative power of sport as a breakthrough for social progress.

Abby Dunkin making a very athletic play while playing Wheelchair Basketball.

Abby Dunkin sitting on the ground of an indoor gym watching Team USA players compete in Wheelchair Basketball

Mental Health Matters, Always

Posted: May 31, 2024 Updated: December 3, 2024 by kReeves

Proudly Recapping AFH’s 2024 Mental Health Awareness Month

by Hailey Wetherill, MSSW

Why It Matters

In the realm of sports, mental resilience is often equated with athletic prowess. Athletes, recognized for their strong, steady minds that equip them for high performance and achievement, are perceived to be beacons of health and strength. However, beneath this facade lies the stark reality: athletes are just as susceptible to mental health disorders as the general population.

Defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a state of well-being enabling individuals to cope with life stressors, mental health encompasses much more than just the absence of illness. It is the foundation of an individual’s ability to function, thrive, and contribute to society. Unfortunately, for athletes, this foundation is often misunderstood or neglected.

Traditionally, sports psychology has focused on enhancing athletic performance rather than nurturing the holistic well-being of individuals. Athletes are often viewed solely through the lens of their athletic achievements, meaning that their humanity is often overshadowed by their athletic abilities. This narrow perspective has left a gap between the support athletes of all levels need and the support they receive.

The absence of a structured system for mental health screening, intervention, and support at elite levels of athletics exacerbates the issue. While organizations like the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) have started to acknowledge the mental health needs of student-athletes, there is still a lack of comprehensive support frameworks. Despite the increasing prevalence of mental health challenges among athletes – ranging from anxiety and depression to disordered eating and burnout – meaningful policy changes have been slow to materialize.

Legislation such as the “Protecting Young Victims from Sexual Abuse and Safe Sport Authorization Act” and the “Empowering Olympic, Paralympic, and Amateur Athletes Act of 2020” have made strides in safeguarding athletes from abuse. However, there are still wide gaps that persist around mental health support and resources.

Change Isn’t On It’s Way, It’s Here

In recent years, prominent athletes like Simone Biles, Naomi Osaka, and Kevin Love have courageously spoken out about their struggles and shed light on the pervasive issues of athlete mental health. Yet, for every voice that is heard, countless other athletes suffer in silence. The stigma surrounding mental health in sports remains a formidable barrier to progress in the field which is why Athletes for Hope (AFH) launched Whole Being Athlete in May 2021.

Addressing the current athlete mental health crisis requires a multifaceted approach. We started this year’s Mental Health Awareness Month by hosting Athlete Mental Health Week, alongside Hilinski’s Hope, and more recently, we held our second Athlete Mental Health Advocacy Day on May 21, at the U.S Capitol in Washington, D.C. The purpose of the event was to bring together athletes, mental health partners, and members of the Athlete Mental Health Alliance (AMHA) to advocate towards recognizing National Athlete Mental Health as a Basic Human Right.

The event was a tremendous success, with 68 registrants participating in a day of meaningful discussions, impactful legislative visits, and community-building activities. Some of the most notable moments occurred during our Town Hall conversation, led by Colton Underwood. The Town Hall featured personal stories and expert insights from two distinguished panels of speakers. These panels included Rawle Andrews, Executive Director of the American Psychiatric Association Foundation (APAF); Gina and Steve Meyer from Katie’s Save; Carin Gabarra, a retired USWNT player and head coach of the U.S. Naval Academy Soccer; Awvee Storey, a retired NBA player currently working in Corporate Sponsorships for the Chicago Sky; and Jaala James, an alumna of Howard University lacrosse.

In addition to our panels, participants engaged in over 20 legislative visits and dropped off folders at more than 20 other critical legislative offices, advocating for National Athlete Mental Health as a Basic Human Right. You can find the legislative platform from the day here and view the virtual Advocacy Toolkit with event materials and advocacy resources.

Join the Movement with Athletes for Hope

To sustain the momentum of advancing athlete mental health, AFH has created an Athlete Mental Health Petition to establish a framework supporting athletes at all levels–from youth sports programs to professional leagues. We believe that all athletes have the right to:

Mental health support for performance on and off the field
Timely referrals to mental health experts for psychological disorders and conditions
Training, education and awareness focused on the importance of mental wellness, identifying mental health conditions, and finding mental health resources
Coaches and trainers who are trauma-informed and some level of mental health training
Equal and equitable access to mental health screenings, treatment and education
Healthy bodies and healthy body images
Support in career transition
Adequately manage injury
Confidential access to mental health services
Support for athletes, coaches and teams after loss of life
Funding towards impact and outcomes research on athlete mental health
Positive and healthy coach-to-player relationships

As we reflect on the challenges facing athlete mental health, it is clear that a transformative shift is needed in how we support those who dedicate themselves to sport. It is important that we continue to stand together to ensure athletes receive the support they deserve, on and off the field. By advocating for comprehensive mental health frameworks and rights, we can create a culture where athletes thrive not only in their athletic pursuits but also in their overall well-being. Join Athletes for Hope today by signing on to our Athlete Mental Health Petition to build a brighter future for athlete mental health.

Sport For Good Highlight

Posted: March 18, 2024 Updated: March 18, 2024 by Hannah Bronkema

AFH Sport for Good Highlight: National Women’s Soccer League

Over the years, so many inspiring women’s soccer players have made an impact with Athletes for Hope. As the NWSL season kicked off this past weekend, we wanted to tell you who we are rooting for.

Orlando Pride defender and former USWNT player Megan Montefusco has been a vital member of Athletes for Hope. In her role as a Community Outreach Coordinator for Athletes for Hope, Montefusco recruited many collegiate and professional teammates to join Athletes for Hope to make a difference.

She also helped bring AFH University to her alma mater UCLA. As an AFH athlete, Montefusco has participated in CHAMPS On-Demand and Hospital Heroes visits, volunteered with Marathon Kids in Boston, helped children stay active during the pandemic, promoted self care for the Mental Health Champions Club. Montefusco has continuously made a difference in children’s lives and allowed AFH to help even more communities.

One of Montefusco’s teammates that she recruited, Orlando Pride midfielder Viviana Villacorta, has given back to kids in the Orlando community, making a virtual CHAMPS visit to Palm Beach County PE.

Bev Yanez made her head coaching debut this weekend for Racing Louisville versus the Orlando Pride and has always been a great mentor for other athletes.

Yanez, a former NWSL player and assistant coach, has continuously advocated for athlete mental health. She is an AFH Mental Health Ambassador for the Whole Being Athlete program and has participated in multiple AFH panels about athlete mental health and life after sports.

Chicago Red Stars & USWNT goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher has been a longtime AFH Athlete, mainly specializing in visiting children in the hospital. Naeher has enjoyed her many Hospital Heroes visits and even helped AFH and partner Starlight Children’s Hospital deliver festive hospital gowns to Comers Children’s Hospital. The star goalie and her sister also created a video for CHAMPS giving kids a fitness game to play at home during the pandemic.

Defenders Lauren Barnes of the Seattle Reign FC and Katie Lind of the Houston Dash joined AFH podcast Conversations with Women in Sports for Women’s History Month with Goal Five’s Lindsey Jones. They discussed the value of female role models in soccer and business, the growth of professional women’s soccer, and equal pay and treatment across gender in sports.

As the NWSL begins its 12th year with a new media deal and more hype than ever before, we are rooting for all of the amazing players in the league who are making a difference.

AFH University Service Recognition

Posted: March 11, 2024 Updated: December 3, 2024 by Hannah Bronkema

February 2024 | Student-Athlete & Team of the Month

Each month we ask our AFH University campus liaisons for nominations of student-athletes and teams who excelled in service. Through our monthly nominations, we can acknowledge all of the good our student-athletes and teams are doing in their communities.

During February, our Student-Athlete and Team of the Month award winners demonstrated consistency in volunteering with various causes in their communities.

February Student-Athlete of the Month

Ckelby Givens

Our February Student-Athlete of the Month is Ckelby Givens from Southern University football. Ckelby was nominated by his peers because of his desire to change the stigma of mental health across his campus.

“Ckelby was eager to join the mental health panel focused on Black history to discuss his upbringing, experiences and the absence of discussions aimed at dismantling stigma within his community. His goal is to alter that narrative on the Southern University campus.“

In episode 1 of the AFH University Mental Health U panel series, Ckelby joined other student-athletes from Southern University and Davidson College to discuss the mental health resources the student-athletes use on & off of campus, the importance of having people you can talk to, how the stigma of mental health is changing, and more. Watch episode 1 here.

Ckelby is honored to be named February’s Student-Athlete of the Month and is excited to continue spreading mental health awareness across his campus and beyond!

February Team of the Month

Howard Women’s Lacrosse

The February Team of the Month is the Howard women’s lacrosse team. The team was nominated by their peers for their consistent time spent volunteering at a local elemntary school where they are helping bring leadership skills, physical fitness and mental health lessons to children through the CHAMPS program.

“Howard women’s lacrosse has been visiting DCPCS – Brightwood Campus to conduct CHAMPS sessions. They have done four sessions with 2nd and 4th graders to discuss courage and honesty. The consistent visits have been invaluable to the children at the school and the women on the team have attended with such excitement and commitment.“

The Howard women’s lacrosse team has historically been involved in service throughout the Washington, D.C. community. The team has participated in MLK Day of Service volunteer opportunities, packaging meals at local food banks, distributing food and clothing to those less fortunate, creating cancer awareness dedication games, and more!.

Aside from community service, the women’s lacrosse team are passionate about using their voices to make a difference. Several team member have participated in AFH University mental health panel series to bring awareness to athlete mental health, the stigma of mental health in the Black community and the mental health of women both in and out of sport.

The team is happy to receive this award and recognition from their peers as they get ready for more community service opportunities in March!