UPMC: Mental Health and Student-Athletes: Managing the Invisible Injury

Hosted by UPMC Western Behavioral Health

***A representative from ASERT will be in attendance***

Purpose: Student-athletes are at high risk of experiencing mental health challenges. Whether through physical injury, unmet expectations, performance struggles, or team discord, they are vulnerable. This symposium offers the opportunity to hear from a variety of experts who are committed to collaborative care that prioritizes psychological safety and athletic outcomes. The mental side of performance can and must stand on equal footing with the physical game.

Who Should Attend? Coaches, athletic directors, athletic trainers, administrators, school counselors, social workers, and teachers for middle school, high school, and college level student-athletes will gain valuable insight into working with and supporting the mental health needs of student-athletes. Continuing education credits available.

Learning Objectives:

• Recognize warning signs that may indicate a student-athlete may be at risk.
• Identify and implement ways to support student-athletes and the team.
• Further assist student-athletes with their internal performance fears.
• Apply resources available to support struggling student-athletes and to assist you in your ongoing role.

UPMC Western Behavioral Health’s goal is to help support and promote mental health and well-being. They offer you a network of services throughout western, northwestern, and north central Pennsylvania, and in southern New York and western Maryland.