A Whole-Club Strategy for Promoting Youth Mental Health

Sports organizations have significant potential to positively influence the mental well-being of young members. Achieving meaningful and lasting change, however, requires active participation from the entire club, not just individual coaches. A recent study by Flinders University, published in Qualitative Research in Sport, Exercise and Health, emphasizes that mental health initiatives in sports clubs should adopt a comprehensive 'whole-club' approach, involving stakeholders such as parents, committee members, trainers, and volunteers.

Lead researcher and psychologist, Kate Rasheed, highlights that focusing solely on coaches is insufficient. Instead, holistic strategies that encompass the entire club environment are essential for supporting youth mental health effectively. Despite the recognition of the importance of mental health support within sports communities, many initiatives remain superficial or disconnected from the club’s core culture, often limited to isolated activities that lack integration.

The study, based on interviews with 23 stakeholders—including coaches, parents, and club officials—revealed an urgent need to embed mental health programs into the club’s routine practices and policies. Creating safe, inclusive spaces and linking mental health support with the club’s existing activities can foster a more supportive environment. Additionally, bridging the divide between physical and mental health through sport-specific methods can enhance overall well-being.

Rasheed suggests that even small, strategically aligned adjustments within a club’s routine can significantly impact mental health outcomes. The key is to do things differently, ensuring mental wellness becomes part of the club’s identity rather than a series of standalone efforts. These insights underscore the importance of a multilayered, collaborative approach to nurturing mental health in youth sports, ultimately helping clubs serve as effective venues for mental health promotion.