For many student-athletes, packed schedules have become the norm. Practices, games, school responsibilities, and other commitments can fill nearly every part of the day, with little time for rest.
That constant pace, combined with pressure to perform, can make it harder for student-athletes to recognize when something isn’t right or when they may need support.
Participation in sports still offers clear physical and mental health benefits. At the same time, young athletes are not immune to broader mental health challenges. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), factors like pressure to perform, injury, and expectations can all contribute to increased stress for teen athletes. As expectations continue to rise, the experience can become more complex, especially when performance starts to shape how young athletes see themselves.
“Athletes are often mentally tough, but they experience the same range of emotions and reactions as anybody else does,” said Ryan Parker, MD, Medical Director at Aspirus Behavioral Health. “The pressure is at an all-time high, and it’s a lot for a single person to try to manage on their own.”
That pressure often shows up in daily schedules and expectations.
“I think our biggest concern right now is overcommitment,” said Jaclyn Halsey, a teacher and varsity girls basketball coach with the Northland Pines School District. “There’s a difference between giving kids opportunities and expecting them to be at everything. The amount of scheduling they’re managing is a lot, and they feel like they need to be everywhere.
We have to remember that they’re still kids. We talk about needing breaks as adults, but kids’ schedules are just as full.”
For many coaches, that support extends beyond the field, building relationships that carry into all areas of an athlete’s life.
Support from adults can make a meaningful difference, especially when it’s treated as a shared responsibility rather than something young athletes are expected to manage on their own. That can look like noticing changes in mood or behavior, creating space for conversations beyond performance, and helping athletes feel seen and supported for who they are, not just what they do.
“Athletes should know that they’re not alone,” Dr. Parker said. “There are professionals who understand what they might be going through, and we’re here to support them.”
For additional support, individuals are encouraged to speak with their primary care provider or a trusted health professional, who can help connect them to appropriate resources.