How We ADVOCATE…
Our advocacy includes discussion and promotion in ANY way possible that - every level of athletics should have an integrated Athlete/Coach centered Mental Health Educational and Awareness Program and that every Sport Organization should have an established relationship with an “Athlete-Trained” Mental Health Professional. This may look differently based on the size of the institution but the goal remains the same. Professional organizations and larger institutions should have Mental Health services embedded in their athletic programs, while smaller programs should have an established relationship with a community Mental Health Professional.
This advocacy includes following, promoting and making topical positive social media posts. It also includes media opportunities where we discuss Athlete Mental Health Needs, like on The Mater 102.9; AthMindset’s Podcast; VCU’s Center for Sport Leadership Podcasts; National Conference Meeting’s (NAIA, NJCAA & NSCAA).
Promoting Clinical Resources
Increase the prevalence of Sport Clinicians: Through conversations with parents followed by research, I have found that there are Sport Clinician Wastelands in many areas of the country. In my own home town, there are only 2 clinicians that have sport therapy training. This is not acceptable; therefore, I have decided to reach out to university Psychology & Social Work departments, advocating for programs that focus on sport therapy.
CWP is committed to raising the alarm bells to the need for more “Sport Clinicians.”
Promoting Programming
Professional & Collegiate: At any & every opportunity CWP will encourage Pro-Sport Organizations & Athletic Departments to have a Mental Health Service Coordinator.
To seek a clearly defined mental wellness coordinator/clinician (in whatever capacity) in ALL athletic organizations. CWP knows that small colleges and universities may not have the resources to provide in house clinicians, but with mental health illiteracy so high among our Student Athletes, it’s important to provide at least identified athletic personnel that they can go to to act as a conduit to local support services or programming. One person that has been selected and identified to all the athletes to provide a SAFE and CONFIDENTIAL location for players & athletes to go to talk and find mental health support.
Promoting Education
High School: At any & every opportunity CWP will encourage all groups associated with HS Sport Entities to begin Athlete Mental Health Programming.to increase high school athletes, parents and sport organizations on the importance of introducing & creating athlete mental health awareness. The sooner we begin education the better equipped our athletes will be as they move through their athletic journey’s.
Betsy Cutler is a committee member of a Youth Sports Mental Health and Wellness Alliance of Eastern VA- “Bench the Stigma” was our first Forum where she presented Mental Health concepts for our Youth Student-Athletes