The PLaybook
The X’s and O’s of Mental Health
The Mental Health Playbook:
Offense, Defense, and Team Strategy
The Mental Health Playbook is a summarized collection of strategies designed to help implement meaningful changes in programs today. While the playbook provides an overview of various approaches, in-depth consultations are available to share real-life examples tailored to specific program needs. Along with personalized guidance, a printed or electronic version of the playbook is provided for staff to ensure access to the resources necessary to foster a positive environment.
Programs can cultivate a culture that prioritizes mental well-being by implementing a solid offensive approach to promote mental health and a sturdy defense to support and protect athletes. This strategy enhances individual resilience and strengthens the entire team dynamic, improving athletic performance and overall happiness.
Below is a summary of lessons that have been learned along the way.
Offense: Proactive Strategies for Mental Well-Being
Educate Yourself and Your Staff
Attend workshops and gain certifications in mental health awareness to equip your team with knowledge, including getting certified in Mental Health First Aid.
Share resources and continue learning about mental health to stay informed.
Discuss the significance of national holidays, days, and months dedicated to mental health. Share how your team is contributing through a social media post and include a hashtag related to the special day. Consider having a group message or a discussion with your team about the importance of the day before or after practice.
Foster Open Communication
Discuss how mental health will be supported and managed within your program, starting from recruit visits and continuing from day one of your team meeting to kick off the academic year.
Hold regular one-on-ones with athletes to check in on their mental well-being.
Encourage a culture where discussing mental health experiences is welcomed and normalized.
Implement Mental Health Days
Offer scheduled mental health days so athletes can take time off to focus on self-care.
Defense: Building Resilience and Support Systems
Create Support Networks
Establish peer support groups where athletes can connect and share their experiences.
Build relationships with mental health professionals for resources and workshops.
Promote Resources and Accessibility
Provide clear and accessible information about local mental health services and hotlines. Have campus support reach out to introduce themselves and share resources specifically for athletes.
Incorporate discussions about mental health into team meetings regularly. This could include sharing an inspirational video or inviting a relatable speaker.
Discuss opportunities for players to get involved in mental health for student-athletes as campus captains for organizations like The Hidden Opponent.
Lead by Example
Coaches are human as well. Demonstrate healthy behaviors and be open about mental health challenges, showing that it’s okay to seek help.
Emphasize the importance of maintaining a balance between athletics and personal life.
Ensure that each coach and staff member understands their role in the program's safety plan concerning mental health.
Team Strategy: Continuous Improvement and Adaptation
Evaluate and Adjust
Conduct assessments through surveys or feedback to understand the mental health needs of your team.
Adapt your strategies based on feedback and observed needs.
Celebrate Progress
Acknowledge and celebrate milestones in mental health initiatives, reinforcing the importance of these efforts.
Encourage ongoing engagement with mental wellness practices within the team.
By implementing a solid offensive approach to promote mental health and a sturdy defense to support and protect your athletes, your program can cultivate a culture that prioritizes mental well-being. This strategy not only enhances individual resilience but also strengthens the entire team dynamic, leading to improved athletic performance and overall happiness.
make your voice heard.
At The Mental Health Playbook, we are dedicated to collecting feedback from coaches to ensure we understand your experiences. We invite you to take this brief survey to help us gather important data as we advocate for coaches to receive the training they deserve and desperately need. Thank you for your support!