The relationship between sports and mental health can not be boiled down to any single factor. The toxic, destructive atmosphere of a sports team is often masked by the ‘friendly competition’ persona.
Often, the problem lies in the coach’s immaturity and deep desire to win above all else. Grown adults are willing to trash a child’s mental health in the name of the game. While sports can create a strong sense of community among athletes, this mutual support can be dismantled by the relentless expectations set by coaches.
“There’s nothing to lose in practice” is a phrase no athlete is a stranger to, but do not fall into this trap. One bad practice can easily prompt excessive punishments or a loss of playing time. Some coaches have no trouble dismissing all an athlete’s hard work and accumulation of excellent performances to validate their dramatic penalization for one off day.
Players are expected to exhibit peak athleticism and skill on a daily basis. Coaches fail to recognize the psychological and emotional challenges faced by teenagers in today’s high-pressure society. The media pushes unrealistic standards, convincing young individuals that success is contingent upon being physically attractive, thin yet not excessively so, socially popular, and academically accomplished. Maintaining this lifestyle, while being committed to a sports team, is virtually impossible for those planning to maintain a healthy mental state.
This is not to imply that sports are some nefarious force designed to cause harm to teenagers. Any form of physical activity can prompt the release of endorphins, diminishing feelings of anxiety and immense sadness. High schoolers facing intense stress can take advantage of sports as a temporary relief from the stressors that plague their mind. The blissful focus required to engage in sports provides a mental break and increased mindfulness. Amidst the intensity of athletic endeavors, athletes rarely have their minds clouded by thoughts of an impending math test.
Though an excessive focus on competition may give rise to anxiety and diminish self-esteem, it can also equip athletes with the resilience needed to navigate the challenges of life. There is no escaping setbacks, failures, and high-pressure situations, so being exposed to them early in a controlled environment can serve individuals in the long run.
This is not a justification of cruel coaches, but rather a recognition of the possibility to learn coping mechanisms when faced with healthy competition. Positive stress exists and can arise through sports, acting as a spark for personal growth and the cultivation of inner strength.
Sports contain both positive and negative aspects. Children should not shy away from sports entirely, in fear of harming their mental health. Instead, they should remain mindful of the amount of competition and pressure they are consuming.
Those looking into joining sports as a form of self-care, approaching it as a leisurely pursuit, may offer the most beneficial balance. Even those seeking a professional career in athletics should not dismiss their mental health, as neglecting it can diminish their natural passion and drive.
