Coach’s Role: #1 MHC (Mental Health Champion)
To both encourage your Team Allies (see Circle of Care) to RAR (Recognize, Approach, Refer), you want to start by changing your team culture. Let your team know that you do take mental health seriously, you understand the consequences on and off the field of play for unaddressed mental health problems, you are approachable and willing to listen and are open to suggestions to tackle mental health problems together. You want to emphasize that mental health problems are not a weakness, and are common, especially for athlete’s undergoing transitions (rookies). Finally, let your team know that as a family it is everyone’s responsibility to have each other’s backs…whether it be a team sport or an individual sport, performance is dependent on all members . Encourage your team to “RAR” and give them appropriate resources.
Ensure your Pre-Season Address Includes:
Expand the Reach is a web based resource for coaches, athletes of all levels, parents and community organizations to support Mental Wellness, and early intervention for better performance in sport & life.