What are Mental Health Disorders?
USSF
Summary
This is a comprehensive overview of how to identify, address, and support individuals experiencing mental health concerns in soccer. The resource covers mental health generally, as well as focusing in on anxiety, depression, and suicide. It also explores how coaches and others working in soccer can recognize and respond to the signs of mental health issues, and provides links to specialist agencies.
HOW AND WHEN IT CAN HELP
- For coaches, referees, and administrators to build awareness of mental health disorders.
- As a reference for parents and players to better understand risks and warning signs.
- To integrate into club safeguarding or wellness training programs.
- When designing initiatives to reduce stigma and promote open dialogue about mental health.
WHAT WE LIKE ABOUT THIS RESOURCE
This is an accessible and actionable resource that can support soccer organizations to develop mental health strategies. It is also a practical resource that coaches and administrators can reach for in moments of need.
KEY CONSIDERATIONS WHEN USING THIS RESOURCE
- Are there any specific mental health issues that are prevalent in your community that it is important to make sure your staff and coaches are aware of?
- Cultural stigma may influence how players discuss mental health. How can you support coaches to navigate these sensitivities?
- Do you have relationships with local mental health specialists who could support you to develop the confidence and capacity of your coaches?
- Training coaches in mental health awareness does not replace professional mental health services. If you have concerns about a child’s well-being, seek help from a mental health professional.
ABOUT THE CONTRIBUTOR
As the governing body of soccer in all its forms in the United States. U.S. Soccer exists in service to soccer. Our ambition is to ignite a national passion for soccer. We believe soccer is more than a sport, it is a force for good.’ To learn more visit USSoccer.com.
These resources are hosted on the US Soccer Learning Center where coaches, referees and other members of the soccer community can access a wide range of articles and training opportunities, including on issues of mental health.
CREDITING CONTRIBUTORS
The Resource Hub is made possible by the generosity of contributors. It demonstrates the rich expertise and collective team spirit that exists across our soccer community.
All resources that have been contributed to the Resource Hub are free for users of the Hub to learn from, adapt and implement in their own organization and community.
Where relevant, we encourage users of the resources to formally or informally credit the resource creator, to acknowledge their expertise and generosity.