“Mental health is important. It's not just for the athletes. It is also for the coaches because everybody is part of the same team.”
Shaun Caven
Paralympic Coach
Mental health has become a massive topic amongst athletes at all levels. For decades, mental struggles were brushed under the rug, we were told to “toughen up,” etc., and we struggled in silence. However, prominent athletes such as Simone Biles (her Netflix documentary was fascinating) have demonstrated that even the GOATs of a sports struggle.
Shaun reminds us that coaches are not immune to mental health issues. I can raise my hand here. We struggle, too. Therefore, as he suggests, organizations must recognize that a coaching staff needs just as much mental health support as an athlete.
Ask Yourself
As a coach, have you experienced mental health challenges? Did you have organizational support?
What systems are in place to support you, your staff, or your athletes where you coach?
When was the last time someone genuinely asked you how you were doing? When was the last time you asked your coaches and athletes the same?