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Week 2: Mental Fitness
Week 2: Mental Fitness
As a Friend, Parent, Teacher, Teammate, Coach, or Colleague you knowing the signs of distress and understanding where to access help and support are key parts of your role.
GMT20210318-001002_BCSS-Mindf_1600x720.mp4Key Signs of Someone Going Through a Difficult Time
Key Signs of Someone Going Through a Difficult Time
Feeling sad or hopeless
Extreme mood swings
Changes in eating and sleeping habits (too much or too little)
Outbursts of anger, violence or aggression
Isolating themselves, not wanting to spend time with others
Speaking about suicide or self-harm
Increase in use of drugs or alcohol
Not taking care of their physical appearance or hygiene
Feeling “on edge” or stressed and anxious
Knowing What To Do After Identifying a Key Sign
Knowing What To Do After Identifying a Key Sign
LISTEN
LISTEN
Give them time to speak without interruption and let them know you are really listening. Save your advice for later on.
BODY LANGUAGE
BODY LANGUAGE
Make sure that you show them you want to listen by being relaxed, maintaining eye contact and ignoring other distractions like phone calls.
DON'T JUDGE
DON'T JUDGE
Even if how they feel doesn’t make sense to you, it will be very real for them. Remove judgement when you speak with them.
ACKNOWLEDGE
ACKNOWLEDGE
Really acknowledge how they are feeling and let them know it is ok to feel that way. Saying things like “it sounds like you feel….is that right?”, let’s them know you’re listening.
ASK QUESTIONS
ASK QUESTIONS
Try using open-ended questions to find out more such as “can you tell me more about that?” or “what makes you feel that way?”.
REMIND THEM THAT THEY ARE NOT ALONE
REMIND THEM THAT THEY ARE NOT ALONE
Sometimes we may not know the best way to help. Even if you don’t know the answer, let them know you are there for them and that, together, you can find someone who has the right skills to help.
TEDx about Athletes and Mental Health
TEDx about Athletes and Mental Health
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