You trust us to keep athletes in the game.
Trust us also to train and equip coaches, parents, and athletic staff to notice the challenges student-athletes face that aren't always so visible.
Though sports offer many health benefits, the demands that often come with them can wear on a student-athlete's mental health. While striving to excel in their sport, they're under added pressure to balance their classwork and social lives with games and practices.
To schedule an appointment or ask a question, call 1-855-937-7678 or contact us online.
At UPMC, we have the training to assess all aspects of a student-athlete's health.
We want to help people support student-athletes if they find themselves in a time of need.
UPMC Sports Medicine, in partnership with UPMC Western Behavioral Health, offers mental health and wellness education for student-athletes. We're here to help you perform at your very best in sports, school — and life.
For partner schools and groups, we offer ongoing virtual training and access to referral coordinators to ensure support, services, and proper follow-up.
Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act.
It also plays a role in how we respond to stress, relate to others, and make healthy and safe choices in life.
Mental health is a part of everyone's daily life.
And mental health challenges are very common. Did you know, one in 5 people suffers from a mental illness each year?
Student-athletes tend to feel more distress because of wanting to perform at a higher level for themselves or others.
They seek validation, praise, greatness, fulfillment, and success.
A common struggle with athletes is feeling like sports are their whole identity. They sometimes need a reminder that they were whole before their sport and will be whole after.
Take time to focus on both your physical and mental health.
Make your wellness a priority, and try to do these things for yourself each day:
It's okay to ask for help. Remember, if you're feeling a certain way, chances are someone else is having similar feelings.
Think about reaching out to:
For a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. For immediate help with a mental health crisis, call 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
You can also contact the:
Kenneth C. Nash, MD, and Raymond Pan, MD, from UPMC Western Psychiatric Hospital, lead this program. It includes videos from experts who support the health and wellness of student-athletes.
Dr. Nash is the team psychiatrist for the Pittsburgh Penguins and Steelers. Dr. Pan is known nationally for his work with student-athlete mental health and wellness.
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