College athletes’ mental health reflects larger patterns among adults in the United States. Many could benefit from care that goes beyond outpatient therapy, especially when symptoms interfere with functioning or performance. However, demanding schedules, stigma, and other challenges may keep them from getting help. Virtual programs are a new option offering hope to student athletes. They’re more accessible, cost-effective, and private than in-person care. They’re also flexible enough that students can work around their schedules while still receiving a high level of care.
Recent surveys have shown that mental exhaustion and anxiety are some of the top concerns among college athletes. Athletes in marginalized groups are more likely to experience distress. This includes women, LGBTQ+ students and people of color. Just 47% of surveyed athletes said they would feel comfortable seeking support from a mental health care provider on campus.
In this article, we’ll share ways virtual programs may help California student athletes cope.
6 ways virtual programs may help California student athletes cope
Athletes on college teams know their performance has the potential to define the trajectory of their careers. They also have the competing priorities of schoolwork and their social lives to think about. Some may face financial difficulties or family stressors as well. Their plates are already full, and many assume that seeking treatment will mean putting something else on hold. Virtual programs allow them to avoid disruptions while getting care. Treatment can help take some pressure off in the short term while helping them grow more resilient in the long term.
Virtual programs may help California student athletes cope in the following ways:
Flexible scheduling around training and competition
Virtual programs offer fully personalized treatment for student athletes. This includes scheduling that works around their academic and team commitments. Students can receive consistent support in the time they have, even during peak training seasons.
Access to intensive care without added stress
Virtual programs offer the specific level of care each student needs. They can start with a high level of care and then taper down to fewer hours each week as they start to feel better. Skipping the need for travel to in-person clinics saves time and lowers stress.
Addressing performance anxiety and pressure
Each sport has nuances that may contribute to stress and anxiety in different ways. Many athletes struggle with high expectations and perfectionism. Teamwork and communication pose different challenges than the isolation of performing solo. The psychological component of extreme sports comes with other concerns. Each presents unique challenges — none more or less difficult than the rest, but students need treatment that accounts for these differences.
Equipping student athletes with personalized self-care plans
Sport performance isn’t the only source of stress in a student athlete’s life. Finding effective coping strategies that support their overall well-being helps set them up to thrive. Virtual programs allow them to learn about different techniques and make them their own.
Helping athletes build strong support systems
Clinicians at Lightfully can coordinate with other care providers for continuity of care. Our virtual programs include weekly family therapy sessions. Students will also work on interpersonal skills to strengthen their relationships and support networks.
Maintaining privacy and reducing stigma concerns
Many student athletes worry about their coaches and teammates knowing that they’re in treatment. Our licensed clinicians follow a strict confidentiality policy. The client must consent to any communications with others on a case-by-case basis. This includes athletic staff, teachers, family members or care providers.
Learn more about virtual programs for student athletes
Worry, stress, and anxiety have real consequences for college athletes. Poor mental health may affect their physical health and nearly every other aspect of their lives. They can receive the personalized support they need without big disruptions to the activities they care about. Virtual mental health programs allow student athletes to work on their psychological well-being. They don’t have to compromise training schedules or team commitments to do so.
At Lightfully, we provide primary mental health care for active and busy people. We’ve made our Virtual Services flexible enough to meet the unique needs of student athletes. Our licensed clinicians use a framework called Precision Care Model (PCM). They combine different evidence-based modalities to create personalized treatment plans. We’ve partnered with UC SHIP to make treatment more affordable to students. We accept many other insurance plans, too.
Are you ready to learn more about your treatment options? The first step is an in-depth assessment. Reach out to our Admissions Concierge Team today or contact us with any questions. Let’s talk about what you’re experiencing and how we can help.
