VCU Athletics has teamed up with Mindflow, a mental health resource specifically aimed at helping student-athletes and coaches. This partnership was announced recently and highlights the growing need for mental health support in sports.
Mindflow provides a range of services, including individual sessions, online training advice, webinars, and telehealth options. What sets Mindflow apart is that around 70% of its licensed psychologists are former collegiate athletes. This unique background allows them to understand the pressures student-athletes face.
In a recent survey, every organization using Mindflow reported improved mental well-being among their members. This speaks volumes about the service’s effectiveness.
At VCU, the athletic department comprises over 350 student-athletes competing in the Atlantic 10 Conference. Balancing high physical and mental demands is crucial for these Division I athletes. “It helps to talk to someone who understands,” says Jihad Aziz, the director of VCU Athletics Psychological Services. He believes that having professionals who have experienced similar pressures makes a significant difference.
However, the need for mental health resources in athletics is widespread. A 2022 study found that nearly 90% of athletic directors feel their institutions lack adequate mental health counseling. Alarmingly, a December 2023 report revealed that 44% of female student-athletes and 17% of male student-athletes feel overwhelmed daily. Yet, only half of them are comfortable seeking help.
Despite these challenges, Jihad Aziz commended VCU for its investment in mental health support. He believes that this commitment significantly benefits athletes. He noted that mental well-being and physical health are interlinked, and support systems are vital for high performance.
Mindflow is leveraging technology to assist athletes in their mental health journeys, offering tools for mindfulness and visualization. These resources can enhance not just athletic performance but also life skills.
In summary, VCU’s partnership with Mindflow represents a positive step toward improving mental health for student-athletes. As awareness grows around the importance of mental well-being in sports, initiatives like this can pave the way for healthier athletic environments.
For more details, check out Mindflow’s official site here and related statistics from the NCAA here.
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Jenny Allen,mental health,Sports,Zoë Luis
