This story discusses suicide. If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, please contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

A new law in Ohio, which took effect on July 4, requires school sports coaches to undergo training in student mental health support.

Included in House Bill 33, the provision states that all coaches must complete the training before they can apply for or renew their pupil-activity program permit. (The permit is required for any staff member who directs a student activity program involving athletics.)

The training course must be approved by the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, the law states.

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Ohio is the first and only state with a law requiring coaches to get mental health training, confirmed Ron Zambrano, a partner attorney at West Coast Employment Lawyers in Long Beach, California.

“Maryland has a bill currently working its way through the legislature, but it hasn’t passed yet, and no other states have a similar law on the books,” he told Fox News Digital.

Today’s student-athletes face mounting pressures that can jeopardize their mental health, experts warn. “If a coach doesn’t pass the required tests, it appears based on the law that they wouldn’t be allowed to coach,” an attorney told Fox News Digital.  (iStock)

“A prospective coach must pass one of these pre-approved programs, and they would need to complete the training again each time they apply to participate in a different school activity,” Zambrano said. 

“If a coach doesn’t pass the required tests, it appears based on the law that they wouldn’t be allowed to coach.”

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Many administrators — including Richard Bryant, director of athletics for Loveland City Schools near Cincinnati, Ohio — believe the requirement is long overdue. 

Bryant’s district had been implementing mental health measures well before the new mandate.

“I have incorporated mental health and suicide prevention training with my coaches for the past five years,” he told Fox News Digital. “At the end of the day, the safety and well-being of our student-athletes must be at the forefront of every decision we make.”

He added, “If implemented correctly, this platform can save lives.”

While many coaches already may be actively supporting their players’ mental health, the new law aims to give them the tools they need to better identify young people who may be struggling.  (iStock)

In the five years that Bryant has been training coaches, he is aware of two “saves.”

“A ‘save’ refers to helping an individual who had a plan to end their life and would have followed through with their plan had someone not intervened,” he said. 

While many coaches already may be actively supporting their players’ mental health, the new law aims to give them the tools they need to better identify young people who are struggling. 

“We need our coaches to look out for our children — not only as athletes, but also as people.”

Andrea Bryant, Richard’s wife, is a school counselor at Lakota East High School, also near Cincinnati. 

“Teens who are struggling with mental health will typically reach out to a trusted adult or friend,” she told Fox News Digital. 

“Providing training to coaches is another layer to help adults and kids. The more people we can train for mental health, the more guidance we will have to support youth.”

At Lakota East, the coaches, teachers and school staff were already completing mental health and suicide training prior to the new law.

“The more people we can train for mental health, the more guidance we will have to support youth,” one Ohio parent told Fox News Digital. (iStock)

“The coaches, athletic trainers, athletic office staff, school administration and school counselors all stay connected to identify student-athlete struggles and support our kids,” Bryant said.

Amanda Boehmer, an Ohio mother whose 16-year-old daughter plays volleyball at Loveland High School and also on a club team, is supportive of the new law as well.

“Sports have been associated with lower rates of stress, anxiety, depression and suicidal behavior — but I’m not so sure if that is 100% true anymore,” she told Fox News Digital.

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While Boehmer believes physical activity can have a “profound and positive impact” on children’s well-being, and that being part of a team can teach valuable life lessons, she also recognizes that student–athletes face significant challenges — and that coaches have a unique opportunity to help.

“I believe some coaches are in touch with their players on this level, but not all of them,” she told Fox News Digital. “Some may not know what to do if an athlete comes to them with an issue or a problem.”

She added, “We need our coaches to look out for our children — not only as athletes, but also as people.”

A new law in Ohio, which took effect on July 4, requires school sports coaches to undergo training in student mental health support. (iStock)

California attorney Zambrano expects that other states will follow suit with their own mental health training mandates.

“We could see similar laws being expanded into the workplace, including for managers and others in positions of authority, similar to the sexual harassment training that many companies already require,” he predicted.

Pressures facing student–athletes

Today’s student-athletes face mounting pressures that can jeopardize their mental health, experts warn.

“There is the internal or individual pressure, as the student-athlete worries about not being good enough, letting their parents down or disappointing their coaches or teammates,” Rich Bryant said.

“We could see similar laws being expanded into the workplace,” an attorney said.

Competitive programs often have performance-based expectations that can place a heavy burden on young athletes, he added — on top of potential pressure at home to earn scholarships and succeed academically.

“There’s also the pressure to ‘do all the things’ — stay in shape, work on skills, weight train, travel, play in tournaments, go to clinics and more,” Bryant said. “Students have to become very adept at time management.”

However, he said that “in many cases, there are simply not enough hours in the day.”

“Students have to become very adept at time management,” said Rich Bryant, an Ohio athletic director. Yet “in many cases, there are simply not enough hours in the day.” (iStock)

On top of that are the typical adolescent challenges of peer pressure, personal relationships and physical and emotional development.

Student counselor Andrea Bryant pointed out that social media only serves to heighten stress levels for student-athletes. 

“Today’s world is much more connected than the smaller communities that adults grew up in 20 to 30 years ago,” she told Fox News Digital. 

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“Students’ connection to the world through social media creates added pressure for them to perform better on their field of play, because not only are the fans in the stand watching, but someone is likely recording [the activity] and will post about the athletic event.” 

“Students’ connection to the world through social media creates added pressure for them to perform better on their field of play.”

Boehmer has experienced firsthand how this pressure to perform can impact student-athletes.

“The sports season, coupled with school work, demands that kids juggle late nights at games, homework, studying and adequate sleep, all while worrying about getting playing time and winning,” she said. 

“All of it can be fun and rewarding, but also stressful.”

Amanda Boehmer, an Ohio mother whose teenage daughter plays volleyball, believes that athletes whose identities are strongly tied to their sports are at higher risk of developing mental health concerns. (Amanda Boehmer)

Things can become even more strained when players experience a sidelining injury or lack confidence in their abilities, Boehmer added.

“In my opinion, an athlete whose identity is strongly tied to their sport is at a higher risk for developing mental health concerns, especially after experiencing an injury,” she said. 

“They may feel they have lost their primary sense of self, and that they have wasted their parents’ time and money and have disappointed them.”

How parents can help 

Dr. Zachary Ginder, a psychological consultant in Riverside, California, stressed the need for parents to feel comfortable discussing mental health and well-being concerns with their children.

“Maintaining mental well-being and addressing concerns as soon as they arise is an important part of performing optimally, both in life and in sports,” he told Fox News Digital. 

“Parents can help de-stigmatize concerns by having open conversations with their children.”

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Parents of athletes can often get swept up in the high-pressure, high-performance culture of sports, Ginder said.

“While it’s admirable for parents to support their kids’ sports endeavors, it could potentially overshadow other aspects of their children’s identity, interests and overall well-being,” he said.

“Having open conversations about interests and actvities outside of sports may also be beneficial.”

Parents or caregivers should encourage student-athletes to find a healthy balance between their sport and other areas of their lives, one mental health expert said.  (iStock)

Parents or caregivers should also encourage student-athletes to find a healthy balance between their sport and other areas of their lives, Ginder said.

“Quality and adequate sleep, balanced nutrition, relaxation with friends and family, and other activities that promote mental well-being will ultimately support a more balanced and effective student-athlete and promote overall mental health,” he said.

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It’s also critical for parents to recognize when a child needs professional help, Ginder said.

Some telltale warning signs among young people include trouble focusing on academics, lacking overall life enjoyment, drifting away from social relationships or having trouble taking care of themselves, he said.

Other red flags include excessive rumination, anxiety, substance use, sleeping or eating too much or too little, or other emotional or physiological changes that are out of the ordinary.

It’s crtiical for parents to recognize when a child needs professional help, a psychologist said. (iStock)

“If a student-athlete is considering harming themselves or others, it is time to seek immediate help from a licensed professional,” Ginder said. 

The national rate for suicide between the ages of 10-14 is 1.69 per 100,000 children, with Ohio slightly above that at 1.78, according to the Ohio Department of Health.

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Among those age 15 to 24, the national suicide rate is 11.39 per 100,000 people, while Ohio’s rate is 11.27.

For emergency help, dial 988 for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, or text “Hello” to 741741 for the Crisis Text Line.

Ohio is the first and only state with a law requiring coaches to get mental health training. (iStock)

Above all, Rich Bryant said parents should be their children’s biggest advocate.

“Be their champion while holding them accountable to the family’s standards and beliefs,” he recommended. 

“Kids have to know, every time they lay their head on a pillow to go to sleep, that their parents love and support them, regardless of the outcome of a game or an individual statistical performance.”

Melissa Rudy is health editor and a member of the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital. 

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Mental toughness is often associated with perseverance, resilience, and the ability to push through difficult situations. However, mental toughness is more than just grit and determination. It also involves being able to manage stress, regulate emotions, and maintain focus under pressure.

Athletes who prioritize their mental health are better equipped to handle the challenges that come with their sport. This includes everything from dealing with injuries and setbacks to managing the stress of competition. When athletes take care of their mental health, they can approach their sport with a clear mind and a positive attitude, which can help them perform at their best.

One way athletes can prioritize their mental health is by seeking support from mental health professionals. Sports psychologists can help athletes develop coping strategies to manage stress and anxiety, as well as techniques to improve focus and concentration. They can also provide support for athletes dealing with depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns.

Athletes can also prioritize their mental health by practicing self-care. This includes getting enough rest, eating a healthy diet, and engaging in activities that promote relaxation and stress reduction, such as yoga or meditation. When athletes take care of their physical and mental health, they are better able to perform at their best.

Finally, it’s important for coaches and sports organizations to prioritize mental health and wellness for their athletes. This can include providing access to mental health resources and support, as well as creating a culture that promotes mental wellness and discourages stigmatizing mental health concerns.

In conclusion, mental toughness is a key aspect of being a successful athlete, but it cannot be achieved without prioritizing mental health. Athletes who take care of their mental wellbeing are better equipped to handle the challenges of their sport and perform at their best. When mental health is prioritized by athletes, coaches, and sports organizations, everyone benefits.

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Putting mental health first is a game-changer for athletes. Here are some ways that prioritizing mental health can benefit athletes:

1. Improving Performance

When an athlete is struggling with mental health issues, their performance on the field or court can suffer. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues can make it difficult to focus, concentrate, and perform at their best. By prioritizing mental health, athletes can improve their overall well-being, which can lead to better performance.

2. Preventing Burnout

Burnout is a common issue among athletes, particularly those who are training or competing at a high level. Burnout can lead to physical and mental exhaustion, which can make it difficult to continue training or competing. By prioritizing mental health, athletes can prevent burnout and maintain their passion for their sport.

3. Building Resilience

Athletes face many challenges throughout their careers, from injuries to setbacks to disappointments. Building resilience is essential for athletes to be able to bounce back from these challenges and continue to perform at their best. Prioritizing mental health can help athletes build resilience and develop the skills they need to overcome obstacles.

4. Enhancing Well-Being

Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, and neglecting this aspect of health can lead to physical and mental health issues. By prioritizing mental health, athletes can enhance their overall well-being and improve their quality of life.

5. Reducing Stigma

The stigma surrounding mental health issues can prevent athletes from seeking the help they need. By prioritizing mental health, athletes can help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues and encourage others to seek help when they need it.

In conclusion, putting mental health first is a game-changer for athletes. By prioritizing mental health, athletes can improve their performance, prevent burnout, build resilience, enhance well-being, and reduce stigma. It is essential for athletes to prioritize their mental health and seek help when they need it to ensure their overall well-being and success in their sport.

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Athletes are often seen as physical specimens with strong bodies and impressive skills. However, it is important to remember that mental health is just as important as physical health when it comes to achieving success in sports and in life. In fact, many athletes have spoken out about the importance of mental health and how it has played a crucial role in their success.

One of the most important aspects of mental health for athletes is the ability to manage and cope with stress. Athletes are under a tremendous amount of pressure to perform at their best, whether it be in front of a large crowd or on a national stage. This pressure can cause anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues that can negatively impact an athlete’s performance. Therefore, it is important for athletes to develop coping mechanisms to manage stress, such as mindfulness techniques, visualization, and positive self-talk.

Another important aspect of mental health for athletes is the ability to maintain focus and concentration. Athletes must be able to stay focused on their goals and remain motivated, even when faced with obstacles and setbacks. This requires mental toughness and resilience, which can be developed through mental training and other techniques such as meditation and breathing exercises.

Additionally, mental health plays a crucial role in an athlete’s overall well-being and happiness. Without proper mental health, athletes may struggle with feelings of isolation, low self-esteem, and even substance abuse. These issues can not only harm an athlete’s performance, but also their personal life and relationships.

Fortunately, there are many resources available to help athletes improve their mental health and well-being. Sports psychologists, mental health professionals, and even coaches can provide support and guidance to help athletes develop healthy coping mechanisms and strategies to manage stress and other mental health issues.

In conclusion, mental health is a vital component of success for athletes both on and off the field. By prioritizing mental health and seeking support when needed, athletes can achieve their goals, maintain their well-being, and ultimately, win at life.

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The stigma surrounding mental health in sports is not new. For years, athletes have been expected to tough it out and push through any pain or discomfort, both physical and mental. This mentality is perpetuated by coaches, fans, and even fellow athletes, who may view mental health issues as a sign of weakness. This stigma can prevent athletes from seeking help when they need it, leading to untreated mental health issues that can have serious consequences.

One of the most prominent examples of this is the case of Olympian Michael Phelps, who struggled with depression and anxiety throughout his career. Phelps, who is one of the most successful athletes of all time, has spoken openly about his mental health struggles and how they affected his performance. Despite his success, Phelps felt isolated and alone, and he struggled with thoughts of suicide. It was only when he sought help and began therapy that he was able to start managing his mental health and perform at his best.

Phelps’ story is just one example of the importance of prioritizing mental health in sports. Mental strength is just as important as physical strength, and athletes need to be able to manage the stress and pressure that comes with competing at a high level. This means recognizing when they need help and seeking it out, rather than suffering in silence.

Breaking the stigma surrounding mental health in sports requires a shift in culture. Coaches, fans, and other athletes need to recognize that mental health issues are not a sign of weakness, but a common and treatable condition. Athletes should be encouraged to prioritize their mental health and seek help when they need it, without fear of judgment or stigma.

Several organizations are already working to address this issue. The NBA and NFL, for example, have implemented mental health programs for their players, recognizing the importance of mental health in sports. Athletes are also speaking out about their experiences with mental health, helping to break down the stigma and create a more supportive culture.

In conclusion, breaking the stigma surrounding mental health in sports is crucial for the wellbeing of athletes. Mental health issues affect people of all backgrounds, including athletes, and it’s time for the sports world to prioritize mental health. By creating a culture of support and understanding, athletes can feel comfortable seeking help when they need it and perform at their best both on and off the field.

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The power of a healthy mindset lies in its ability to boost an athlete’s confidence, improve their focus, and help them cope with the pressures of competition. When an athlete has a positive outlook, they are more likely to have the mental fortitude to push through tough training sessions and overcome setbacks.

One of the key benefits of a healthy mindset is increased confidence. Athletes who believe in their abilities are more likely to take risks, try new things, and push themselves to their limits. This can lead to breakthrough performances and unexpected victories.

In addition to confidence, a healthy mindset also improves an athlete’s focus. When an athlete is focused, they are less likely to be distracted by external factors, such as crowd noise or the pressure of the moment. This allows them to perform at their best and make split-second decisions with clarity and precision.

Perhaps the most important benefit of a healthy mindset, however, is the ability to cope with stress and pressure. Athletes face a tremendous amount of pressure both on and off the field, from the expectations of coaches and fans to the demands of their personal lives. A healthy mindset allows athletes to manage this stress and maintain a sense of balance and perspective.

Unfortunately, mental health issues are all too common among athletes. Depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders can have a significant impact on an athlete’s performance and overall quality of life. That’s why it’s important for athletes to prioritize their mental health and seek help when needed.

There are several strategies that athletes can use to maintain a healthy mindset. These include setting realistic goals, practicing positive self-talk, visualizing success, and seeking support from coaches, teammates, and mental health professionals.

In conclusion, the power of a healthy mindset cannot be overstated. Mental health is crucial for athletes who want to achieve their full potential and succeed in their respective sports. By prioritizing their mental health and embracing a positive outlook, athletes can improve their confidence, focus, and ability to cope with stress and pressure.

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