This presentation will explore the implementation of an integrated behavioral health screening program designed to identify mental health concerns among collegiate student-athletes. The session will discuss the importance of early identification of conditions such as depression, anxiety, substance use, and trauma within athletic populations. Attendees will learn how structured screening tools can be integrated into existing athletic health systems to improve access to behavioral health support. The presentation will also highlight practical strategies for collaboration between behavioral health providers, athletic departments, and medical staff to enhance student-athlete wellbeing and performance.
Kroshus, E., Wagner, J., Wyrick, D., Athey, A., Bell, L., Benjamin, H., … Hainline, B. (2019). Wake up call for collegiate athlete mental health: Narrative review of athlete mental health care in the United States. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 53(12), 731–736. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2018-100427
National Collegiate Athletic Association. (2023). Mental health best practices: Understanding and supporting student-athlete mental wellness. Indianapolis, IN: NCAA Sport Science Institute.
Watson, J. C. (2016). Student-athletes and counseling: Factors influencing the decision to seek counseling services. College Student Journal, 50(2), 211–222.