National Alliance on Mental Illness Resources To Help Support Athletes
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by Mike Clayton, USA Wrestling
The Wild Card task is a part of the USA Wrestling Gold Level Coaches Certification. This task can often be built around something that a coach feels strongly about, and they get a quick look at some of the “behind the scenes” efforts of the USA Wrestling National Coaches Education Program (NCEP).
This Wild Card task (below) was initially submitted by Michigan USA Wrestling’s Coach Corey Tripp. Tripp is a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA). In this role he works with kids to provide a powerful voice for them in the most chaotic times of their lives. The goal is to turn a child’s story of abuse or neglect into one of hope, stability and a better future.
Tripp selected this subject for his Wild Card task, with a goal of helping USA Wrestling Members become more aware of childhood trauma and neglect and to help provide free resources created by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) on this topic. Below are the NAMI resources Tripp helped us to identify. He was supported in this effort by Margaret Keeler (of Lansing NAMI), by NAMI’s national office staff, and facilitated by USA Wrestling’s NCEP Manager, Mike Clayton.
Staying on top of school, athletics, family time, and a social life is tough. NAMI’s Youth and Young Adults Initiatives aim to help young athletes balance their performance on the mats, in the gym, at school, and in their futures.
Being a young person’s trusted adult means you’re a role model, offering support and encouragement. Spark positive outcomes by preparing for this important role.
Build connection into your routines. Add these questions to your regular team or at-home chats for deeper conversations and better insights.
When working with young people, you may notice an athlete struggling. Are you prepared to support them through a traumatic experience?
Trusted adults are respectful, non-judgmental, and thoughtful. If you need help, this resource provides guidance on discussing tough things with adults you trust.
Young people might be the first to know if their friend isn’t doing well. This resource includes ten common warning signs and tips for supporting them.
Maintaining a positive attitude in the face of a loss can be tough. Developing positive coping skills can help you stay focused and ready for the next match.
Sometimes, young people need to talk with someone who just gets it. The NAMI Teen & Young Adult HelpLine is staffed by specialists who understand what you’re going through. Reach out for unique one-on-one emotional support, mental health information, and resources.
Available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. ET
Call 1-800-950-NAMI | Text “Friend” to 62640 | Email HelpLine@nami.org
NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization. NAMI provides advocacy, education, support, and public awareness so that all individuals and families affected by mental illness can build better lives.
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