Date of Award
Spring 5-2025
Document Type
Project (696 or 796 registration)
Degree Name
Master of Science in Counseling
Department
Graduate Studies
Committee Chair
Taryn Akgul
Abstract
There is a rising trend in youth participation alongside an increase in prevalence of mental health issues in youth. This literature review explores the crucial role of coaches in youth sports, highlighting their impact on mental health and the overall well-being of young athletes. Youth participation in sports can have a positive impact on skill building and development. Given that coaches spend large amounts of time with athletes, they hold a unique position in fostering individual growth through skill teaching and promoting overall well-being through supporting mental health. However, many youth sport coaches lack mental health training due to it not being a requirement. Mental health trainings for youth sport coaches help coaches establish safe team cultures and feel comfortable supporting athletes with their mental health by educating coaches on warning signs for common mental health disorders and steps to take for supporting athletes. Coaches that possess knowledge on the impacts of mental health and how to support mental health concerns create a positive experience for athletes leading to positive outcomes in adulthood.
Keywords: Coaches, Youth, Mental Health
Recommended Citation
Geller, Kennedy M., "Mental Health in Youth Sports: A Training for Coaches" (2025). Dissertations, Theses, and Projects. 1040.
https://red.mnstate.edu/thesis/1040