Mental health is an often-overlooked aspect of the student-athlete experience, yet it is just as important as physical health for overall performance. Juggling the demands of schoolwork, sports, and social life can be mentally exhausting, leading to stress, anxiety, and burnout.
Michael Harris, a sports psychologist based in Houston, specializes in helping young athletes manage the mental strain of competing while studying. “It’s important to understand that student-athletes are under a lot of pressure,” he says. “They’re expected to perform well in both arenas, and when they’re struggling, it can affect their self-esteem and their performance in school and in sports.”
Michael’s approach is focused on mental resilience and mindfulness. He works with athletes to help them cope with the pressures they face. Techniques like deep breathing exercises, visualization, and relaxation strategies are among the tools Michael teaches to help athletes clear their minds and stay focused under pressure.
For Marcus Taylor, a boxer from Houston, mental coaching has been a game-changer. “Before I started working with Michael, I struggled with stress before big fights or exams. But now I know how to stay calm and focused,” Marcus shares. “Mental health is just as important as physical health when it comes to performing well in both areas.”
Schools are beginning to recognize the importance of mental health and are offering counseling and wellness programs for student-athletes to help them manage stress effectively. “Taking care of the mind is just as important as taking care of the body,” Marcus adds.
