Elite Athletes Mental Health: Unique Risks Olympians Face

Mishkind said that is the key: talking about it, something many athletes are hesitant to do. He advises parents, coaches and teammates — starting from a young age — to encourage athletes to speak up if they are struggling, point them to resources if they need help and let them know they’re not alone.

“I think we’re in a better spot,” he said when asked if he’s seen progress in recent years. “Obviously we’re not exactly where I think everybody wants to be. The thing I think I’ve noticed the most is people are actually probably trying to treat athletes as if they’re humans, which I’m not sure that was always the case.”

Mishkind is working with former Broncos running back Montee Ball and other medial experts to form the Coalition of Athletic Communities for Mental Health to address mental health issues for athletes. This conversation is now also taking place at the Colorado State Capitol, where a bill requiring mental health training for coaches is being discussed.