The mental health of young athletes has come under increasing scrutiny, particularly in light of the intense pressures they face. Recent events have highlighted the emotional struggles experienced by competitors, raising awareness about the importance of mental wellness in sports.
The discussion gained momentum during the 2021 Tokyo Olympics when athletes like Simone Biles made headlines for prioritizing their mental health. Biles chose to withdraw from several events due to a phenomenon known as “the twisties,” which affects an athlete’s spatial awareness. This courageous decision sparked widespread dialogue about the mental health challenges athletes endure, a topic further explored by fellow competitors like Naomi Osaka and Michael Phelps, who have both publicly shared their battles with anxiety and depression.
At the recent Milan Olympics, attention turned to Ilia Malinin, nicknamed “the Quad God,” who faced his own mental hurdles during the men’s free skate competition. Despite his extraordinary talent, Malinin experienced crippling anxiety and expressed feeling overwhelmed by the “vile online hatred and negativity” surrounding competitive sports. Following a disappointing eighth-place finish, he remarked, “This is definitely something I wasn’t expecting… but this is not like any other competition.”
These incidents underscore a troubling trend among young athletes, particularly in high schools and colleges. Studies indicate that between 35% to 60% of this population experience anxiety, depression, burnout, and eating disorders, with over 60% reporting moderate to severe stress. Alarmingly, only 10% seek help, often due to the stigma surrounding mental health.
In South Carolina, the youth mental health crisis is particularly acute, with suicide ranked as the leading cause of death for individuals aged 10 to 17. In 2021, there were 141 deaths attributed to this issue, a significant increase from previous years. The state ranks 13th in the United States for intentional self-harm deaths among adolescents aged 15 to 19, and approximately 77% of youth with major depressive episodes do not receive treatment.
Recognizing the signs of mental health struggles is crucial for intervention. Indicators include changes in sleep or eating habits, persistent sadness, mood swings, withdrawal from activities, and unexplained physical complaints such as headaches or stomach aches. Parents, coaches, and educators play a vital role in monitoring these signs and ensuring that young athletes feel supported.
To foster a supportive environment, it is essential for adults to engage in open conversations with children about their emotions and experiences. Establishing a routine of discussing feelings can promote emotional health and resilience. Communities must come together to provide a network of support, allowing children to thrive in both sports and life.
In addition to individual efforts, advocating for broader mental health education and resources is necessary. Mental health conditions often begin in adolescence, with over half of all lifetime conditions emerging by the age of 14. Despite some initiatives in South Carolina, ongoing investment in mental health resources remains critical.
The 2026 Milano Cortina Figure Skating Exhibition Gala showcased athletes using their platforms to raise awareness about mental health. Malinin’s performance to the song “Fear” by rapper NF resonated deeply, highlighting the struggles many face in silence. The message was clear: mental health matters, and it is time to prioritize it, not just in sports, but across all aspects of life.
As the conversation around youth mental health continues to evolve, it is imperative for communities to unite in fostering an environment where young athletes can seek help without fear of stigma. Only then can we hope to alleviate the mental health burdens shouldered by these talented individuals.
