The Importance of Mental Health in Athletes

I am an athlete. I strive to perform 100% every time I step onto the field. When I underperform, or when my stats are not up to date I am extremely hard on myself. Aside from training, I have to keep my grades not only average but above and beyond. I was raised by first-generation immigrants who expect nothing less than a B+. Throughout the week I am expected to not only perform well for my own sake on the soccer field. But in the classroom as well. If not I am not allowed to pursue what truly makes me happy—my source of mental health.
Additionally, I am now getting involved in college. I find myself figuring out if I want to play the sport at the collegiate level, which would be so confusing for the younger me. The girl who lived and breathed the sport. But, how can I become a lawyer and be a soccer player? How am I supposed to stay up to 2-3 in the morning and then wake up at 5 to train before class? Sadly, I am not a robot. I cannot strive for any sleep. Or without taking care of myself. Spending time with the people I love. That serotonin is what I need to go through life. I strive to be in public.
On March 1, 2022, Katie Meyer, Stanford goalkeeper, killed herself. But why? She was going to one of the top universities in the country. While also playing for the leading team to be National Champions. When the expectation is to be great. The constant pressure. People should not be expected to hold those feelings in. The more resources, safety nets, and support offered to students, the more real changes can be made.
Student-athletes will also experience setbacks. Not only injuries but experiences in their personal lives as well. It’s not surprising if someone puts off their mental health because of the standards they’re held to. Yes, mental health has become a major topic, especially with students. However, student-athletes should automatically be provided with those materials and promote them. So, students can comfortably connect with therapists or other professionals to talk to and get recommendations from.