Sport Specific Mental Health Considerations

  • While any mental health concern may arise in any student-athlete, regardless of sport, there are certain sports where specific mental health concerns and behaviors are seen more frequently. Norfolk Public Schools Athletics aims to raise awareness about sport specific mental health considerations to promote recognition and work towards prevention. 

     

    Cheerleading 

                Eating Disorders

                          Due to the physical demands and aesthetic emphasis of the sport, Cheerleaders may be at an increased risk for eating disorders. Click here for more information about eating disorders. (click on the link above for more information from the NCAA)

    Relational Aggression or ‘Bullying’ 

    Relational Aggression or ‘bullying’ is defined as "a brand of behavior that intentionally damages or has the potential to damage an existing relationship". Behaviors consistent with relational aggression are spreading lies, gossiping, spreading secrets, and intentional exclusion. These types of behaviors can lead to numerous mental health concerns, such as depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation and eating disorders. Due to the demands of sport, as well as team dynamics, cheerleaders may be at a higher risk to engage in relational aggression. If you, your teammate, or your student-athlete is being bullied, you should report it to your coach, as well as through Vector 

    Adapted from Doyle, Heather, and Caven S Mcloughlin. “Do Science and Common Wisdom Collide or Coincide in Their Understanding of Relational Aggression?” Frontiers, Frontiers, 8 Oct. 2010, 

     

    Wrestling 

               Eating Disorders

                          Due to the nature of weight classes and physical demands of the sport, wrestlers may be at an increased risk for eating disorders. Click here for more information about eating disorders. (click on the link above for more information from the NCAA)

     

    Cross Country/Track 

              Eating Disorders

                          Due to overtraining and the physical demands of the sport, runners may be at an increased risk for eating disorders. Click here for more information about eating disorders. (click on the link above for more information from the NCAA)

    Swimming 

                Eating Disorders

    Due to the physical demands of the sport, along with uniform requirements, swimmers may be at an increased risk for eating disorders. Click here for more information about eating disorders. (click on the link above for more information from the NCAA)