Coaches, parents, and athletes often ask me - How do I talk to an athlete about getting help with mental performance or mental health?

No one wants to make things worse.
Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:

Be aware of your emotions. It's normal for both of you to feel vulnerable. Describe the things you see that concern you.

Listen without judgment and try to understand what may be happening in their life. They may not tell you everything, and that's okay. Remember, they might not share your concern or be ready to hear it. Even if they’re not open to getting help in that moment, you may be planting an important seed for later.

When you have the conversation, make sure it’s relatively private. Limit the meeting to two coaches. Show the athlete you care.

Normalize struggle as part of the game. Talk about your own struggles as an athlete. Tell them to Google Michael Phelps, Simone Biles, Tom Brady, Cale Makar and mental health. They'll be surprised at what they find.

Let them know you believe mental training is an investment in themselves.
Change the conversation to mental fitness.

Have the conversation. We can help you—reach out to find out how.