Is It Adolescence or a Mental Health Concern? How Coaches Can Support Student Athletes

Teen athletes carry a lot: school, practices, games, teammates, family expectations, and pressure to improve. Some stress, mood changes, and ups and downs are part of adolescence. But when changes in mood, behavior, performance, or physical health last or feel significant, they may signal that a student athlete needs support.

Coaches, athletic trainers, teachers, and other trusted adults aren’t expected to diagnose anxiety, depression, burnout, or other mental health conditions. But they may be among the first to notice when something has changed—and to help an athlete take the next step.

Why student athletes may be vulnerable

Sports can support mental health by building confidence, connection, discipline, and a sense of belonging. Competitive sports can also create stress that makes it harder for young athletes to ask for help.

Student athletes often balance academic demands, athletic expectations, pressure to perform, and a culture that values mental toughness. For some athletes, their sense of self is closely tied to their sport, so injuries, setbacks, or changes in playing time can feel especially difficult.

High-risk moments to watch

Mental health concerns can emerge at any time, but some transitions and stressors may increase risk. Pay close attention when a student athlete is:

• Transitioning from high school to college
• Recovering from an injury or surgery
• Losing a starting position or playing time
• Reaching the end of a season or athletic career
• Struggling academically
• Managing relationship or family challenges

Signs a student athlete may need support

Look for persistent changes from an athlete’s usual behavior. One difficult day does not always mean there is a concern. A pattern of changes—or a change that feels significant—deserves attention.

Changes in performance

• Declining performance or motivation
• Difficulty concentrating
• More mistakes under pressure

Physical signs

• Fatigue that seems out of proportion to training
• Headaches, stomach problems, or vague physical complaints
• Changes in weight or appetite
• Trouble sleeping or sleeping much more than usual
• More frequent injuries

Emotional and behavioral signs

• Irritability or mood swings
• Tearfulness or emotional withdrawal
• Isolation from teammates or friends
• More conflict with others
• Expressions of hopelessness
• Increased alcohol or substance use

If something feels different, trust your instincts and check in. You do not need to be certain that something is wrong before you offer support.

How to start the conversation

You don’t need perfect words to make a difference. Start with privacy, empathy, and curiosity.

• Choose a private place to talk
• Lead with what you have observed, not assumptions
• Listen more than you speak
• Respond with empathy
• Normalize seeking help
• Connect the athlete with appropriate support

You might say: “I’ve noticed you haven’t seemed like yourself lately.” “How are you really doing?” “I’m glad you told me. Let’s figure out the next step together.”

What to avoid

• Do not minimize their feelings
• Do not promise confidentiality if safety is a concern
• Do not connect support to athletic performance or playing time
• Do not wait until you are certain something is wrong

When to act immediately

Some situations require same-day action. Take immediate steps to connect an athlete with a mental health professional if they talk about wanting to die or not wanting to be alive, express feeling like a burden, engage in self-injury, give away valued possessions, or say goodbye in a way that feels final.

If you are concerned about an athlete’s immediate safety, stay with them, notify the appropriate school or organizational personnel, and connect them to immediate professional support. In the United States, call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or call emergency services when appropriate. In Maryland, Sheppard Pratt offers Psychiatric Urgent Care.

Remember your role: Notice. Check in. Listen. Connect.

A caring coach cannot solve every problem. But one conversation can be the first step toward helping a student athlete get support. If you notice persistent changes, take them seriously, start with empathy, and connect the athlete to the right resources.