“It’s stressful,” The first two words that came out of the mouths of student athletes here at Copper Hills. For many students, sports are an outlet and it’s something they enjoy doing. Until something pushes them over the edge and it’s no longer enjoyable. 

It’s impressive how many students in high school go all three years (maybe even four years if their sport allows freshman) multitasking sports and extracurricular activities inside and possibly outside school. Many student athletes start out doing club and recreational sports before stepping into a high school team. Students who like or feel like they have to show perfectionism often leads to the fear of failure. “The pressure and expectation for a perfect performance is kinda draining.” said Grace Bailey, who’s been a member of the cheer team for three years now. 

Teens Mental Health First Aid also known as “tMHFA” is a website and course you can take to be trained on and become more educated about mental health for pretty much everything. “tMHFA covers a broad range of mental health challenges, from eating disorders to depression.” said Kayla O’Rourke from Ramsey High School in New Jersey https://www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org/2022/10/student-athletes-coaches-mental-health/ 

https://www.mentalhealthf

irstaid.org/population-focused-modules/teens/

While already being completely burnt out from school, there is a possibility that students could be developing mental health disorders. For example depression, anxiety, self isolation, eating disorders, and possible substance misuse.

Sleep deprivation is also a pretty big problem. Especially during each sports season throughout the year. The physical demands of getting up before 6 in the morning just to make it to practice way before school starts. Students having to stay up late to do homework for school the next day, or even being at practice late at night just to be back at practice the next morning. This causes students to be mentally absent from their classes during the day and from their school work. 

Overall, too much of anything isn’t good. And it’s important to know when you and your body needs a break. There are many outlets for students who are in need of help. Talking to a teacher, school counselor, parent, even your coach is always an option although it may be scary to admit you need someone to talk to. People are here 24/7 no matter what, ready to help you whatever the circumstances may be.