Poster 20 - The Mental Health Literacy of Athletic Directors and Coaches for Student-Athlete Success
Monday, April 27, 2026
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM MDT
Location: Screen 12, Exhibit Hall Poster Pavilion
Mental health has become an integral part of the holistic health model for student-athletes in recent years. Athletic directors and coaches alike must be aware of community resources, health professionals in the school setting, and other platforms available to help student-athletes. The mental health literacy (MHL) of athletic staff including athletic directors and coaches can help enhance the health and wellbeing of student-athletes through education, technological tools, and workshops.
Learning Objectives:
Assist coaches to identify early warning signs and behavioral indicators of mental health distress in student-athletes, while distinguishing between normal competitive stress and symptoms requiring professional intervention
Offer guidelines for athletic directors on communication strategies and response techniques when approaching student-athletes who may be experiencing mental health challenges, including appropriate language and referral protocols (via Athletic Handbook)
Help athletic directors and coaches to analyze the unique psychological pressures facing student-athletes and formulate approaches for creating mentally healthy team environments that promote both athletic performance and overall wellbeing
