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  • HEADER Tips om de mentale gezondheid te verbeteren tijdens het herstel van jonge atleten

    Wat als ik niet meer kan spelen? Wat gaat er met mij gebeuren? Dit zijn enkele vragen en zorgen die een jonge atleet kan hebben na een blessure. Ze weten vaak niet wat er gaat gebeuren, en dit kan leiden tot nog meer vragen: “Hoe ernstig is mijn blessure en hoe lang ben ik uitgeschakeld?” Blijf ik in het team of is dit het einde van mijn sportcarrière? Of jonge atleten nu dromen van een profcarrière of gewoon genieten van actief zijn, blessures kunnen grote veranderingen en nieuwe uitdagingen met zich meebrengen. De hamvraag is: hoe kunnen we jonge atleten helpen om met deze pijn om te gaan? Volwassenen hebben ook te maken met uitdagingen na blessures, maar het kan nog moeilijker zijn voor kinderen en tieners die niet zoveel levenservaring hebben. HEADER-experts geloven dat het helpen van kinderen om met deze gevoelens om te gaan, het herstel makkelijker en sneller kan maken. Op deze manier hebben we de kans om de toekomst van onze volgende generatie vorm te geven. Handige tips voor coaches en/of ouders Help pijn te verminderen met positieve activiteiten Emotionele pijn kan net zo sterk aanvoelen als fysieke pijn na een blessure. Het beheersen van deze emoties is een belangrijk onderdeel van herstel. HEADER Studies tonen aan dat onze gevoelens kunnen veranderen hoe we pijn ervaren, en pijn kan erger aanvoelen wanneer we: - Negatieve emoties voelen zoals boosheid of verdriet - Denk dat de pijn nooit zal verdwijnen - Geloven dat de pijn buiten onze controle ligt Aan de andere kant kunnen positieve ervaringen zoals luisteren naar muziek, kijken naar leuke plaatjes of lachen helpen om pijn te verminderen. Leuke activiteiten zoals films kijken of spelletjes spelen kunnen jonge atleten afleiden van pijn en ervoor zorgen dat het minder intens aanvoelt. Het is belangrijk om door te blijven leven na een blessure, dus help je atleet om nieuwe hobby's uit te proberen of oude hobby's die ze leuk vinden weer op te pakken. Gebruik rolmodellen voor inspiratie Volgens Albert Bandura, een psycholoog, leren mensen door naar anderen te kijken. Hoe kan dit een geblesseerde atleet helpen? Onderzoekers in Nieuw-Zeeland ontdekten dat mensen die video's bekeken van anderen die goede revalidatie-activiteiten deden, zoals traplopen of stretchen, zich zelfverzekerder voelden en klaar waren om te herstellen. Jonge atleten kunnen ook online naar rolmodellen zoeken, zoals topatleten die op YouTube over hun revalidatie-ervaringen praten. Ouders en coaches kunnen een positieve houding tonen door te vertrouwen op het revalidatieproces en zich te richten op herstel. Gerelateerd artikel: Jan Vertonghen: een reis van kracht, voetbal en mentale gezondheidsondersteuning Stimuleer keuze, vaardigheidsontwikkeling en een gevoel van erbij horen Volgens de zelfbeschikkingstheorie hangen motivatie en succes af van drie dingen: Keuze: atleten hun eigen beslissingen laten nemen Vaardigheden opbouwen: hen helpen om taken succesvol uit te voeren Erbij horen: ervoor zorgen dat ze zich gewaardeerd voelen Als jonge atleten te veel druk voelen, willen ze misschien opgeven. Help ze om onafhankelijker te worden door ze mee te laten doen aan hun revalidatieplan. Veel jonge atleten willen hun ouders en coaches tevreden stellen, dus volgen ze misschien wat volwassenen zeggen zonder vragen te stellen. Maar revalidatie veranderen in een andere test van prestaties kan stress toevoegen. Moedig ze aan om hun gedachten, gevoelens en doelen te delen. Het stellen van flexibele doelen kan hun zelfvertrouwen vergroten. Een gevoel van erbij horen is ook erg belangrijk. Een geblesseerde atleet kan naar de training komen, maar zich buitengesloten voelen. Vraag wat voor soort ondersteuning ze nodig hebben. Coaches kunnen manieren vinden om geblesseerde atleten te betrekken bij teamactiviteiten om ze te helpen zich gewaardeerd te voelen. Ouders, als uw kind groepsactiviteiten vermijdt vanwege krukken, moedig ze dan aan om contact te maken met anderen. Dit kan hun humeur verbeteren terwijl ze herstellen. Verbeter uw stemming en motivatie met mentale vaardigheden Onderzoeken tonen aan dat vaardigheden als diep ademhalen, positieve zelfpraat, visualisatie en dagboekschrijven de stemming kunnen verbeteren, helpen bij het beheersen van pijn en revalidatie kunnen ondersteunen. Deze vaardigheden zijn nuttig voor zowel sport als herstel. Het oefenen van diep ademhalen of het herhalen van eenvoudige zinnen om je te concentreren op bepaalde spieren tijdens revalidatie kan stress verminderen, vooral als ze zich voorbereiden om weer te gaan sporten. Leg het verschil uit tussen ongemak en letsel Naarmate jonge atleten vorderen in therapie en nieuwe oefeningen beginnen, is het normaal dat ze wat pijn voelen. Ze oefenen misschien bewegingen die ze weken of maanden niet hebben gedaan, en soms herhalen ze de beweging die de blessure veroorzaakte. Hoewel 'luisteren naar je lichaam' een goed advies is, betekent enig ongemak niet altijd dat ze zichzelf pijn doen. Atleten vermijden bepaalde bewegingen uit angst, wat hun voortgang juist kan vertragen. Begrijp de risico's van sporten Terugkeren naar sport brengt risico's met zich mee, zoals opnieuw geblesseerd raken. Dit kan een lastig onderwerp zijn, maar het is belangrijk om na te denken over wat het belangrijkst is in het leven. Na een ernstige blessure is terugkeren naar sport misschien niet het beste idee. Daarom is het belangrijk om jonge atleten te ondersteunen bij het maken van hun eigen beslissingen en hen te helpen die keuzes te verbinden met hun waarden. Onthoud dat u met deze stappen niet alleen hun herstel versnelt, maar ze ook helpt sterker en zelfverzekerder te worden. Trouwens, als u nog vragen hebt, nodigen we u uit om onze HEADER-app te downloaden , die essentiële informatie biedt om jonge atleten te ondersteunen in het herstelproces.

  • Jan Vertonghen Empowers Young Football Players' Mental Health Through the HEADER App!

    Jan Vertonghen is one of the best players in Belgian football history. His journey is fascinating! You know he played for many popular clubs, having millions of fans, like Ajax and Tottenham. Right now? He is playing with RSC Anderlecht. Such a good transfer decision.  He is also the most capped player for Belgium. According to wikipedia  he has 157 appearances for the national team. In addition to all these things, Jan is known for his dedication to the sport - Both on and off the field. However, life can be tough. Our player’s career hasn’t always been easy. He has faced many challenges, especially with his mental health. It's tough sometimes, but that’s just life.! Struggles with Mental Health In 2019, Jan Vertonghen suffered a serious injury during a match in the CL semi-finals against Ajax. He hit his head during a collision with two other players, and this injury caused him to have dizziness and headaches not for days but for months. Some of you may still remember this incident. Even after he recovered physically, Jan felt different. He experienced feelings of anxiety and sadness that affected his life and career. He started losing his passion and found it hard to play football or even to go out in public.  Jan’s experiences during this challenging period were intense. Days turned into weeks where he felt weak and overwhelmed. The pressure to perform weighed heavily on him; he worried constantly about his job and how fans perceived him. Comments on social media cut deep, with some fans cruelly declaring, "he's finished" or urging the club to "get him out."  Those hurtful words echoed in his mind, making it difficult for him to cope. As you may have noticed, social media can sometimes ruin lives. Jan tried to hide his emotions, putting on a brave face in front of his supporters. He believed that showing vulnerability would make him appear weak. This fear of acknowledging his mental health struggles kept him trapped in silence, leaving him feeling isolated in his battle. Finding Comfort in the Jan Vertonghen Foundation After leaving Tottenham in 2020, Jan started the Jan Vertonghen Foundation. This foundation is very special to him. It helps children in hospitals play and be creative, no matter what illnesses they have. Jan believes that play is very important for children's mental health. When children can play, it helps them feel happier and more relaxed. Jan has visited many hospitals and seen children who are very sick. He wants to make their time in the hospital better. He remembers how important playing was for him when he was a child. He had a big backyard and played football with his brothers. He enjoyed watching his own children play outside with their friends. But not all children have this opportunity. Jan wants to create more playgrounds for children, especially in hospitals and schools. Through the foundation, Jan has helped build playgrounds with special equipment. He works with a company called Yalp that creates interactive play equipment. Jan is very proud of this work and wants to expand the foundation to help even more children. He wants to inspire them to play and be creative, just like he was. The HEADER App Now, Jan is part of a new project called the HEADER app. This app is all about supporting young football players with their mental health. Also, It offers valuable tips and support to deal with the pressures they face in sports. Many young athletes feel anxious about performing well and fear making mistakes. This app helps them learn how to handle these feelings. The HEADER app is like a “Mental Digital Coach” that young players can access anytime, anywhere. It is built on real sports psychology, meaning the advice and tips are based on scientific research. The app includes stories and guidance from professionals to motivate users. There is even a digital avatar that talks to users and guides them through different mental health topics. Jan believes that by sharing his own challenges, he can help young players feel more comfortable with their emotions. Through the HEADER app, he’s helping create a safe space where young athletes can open up, express themselves, and build mental strength.  Jan Vertonghen’s journey is a powerful reminder that it’s okay to ask for help, especially when it comes to mental health. He’s been through challenges that have shaped him into a stronger person, and now, he's determined to help others discover their own strength. Together with Cédric Vercauteren, Pieter-Jan Criel, and Glenn Van Dael, Jan is using the HEADER app to support young football players. His goal is pretty straightforward but really important: he wants these kids to know they’ve got the support and tools to handle whatever life throws at them, both on the field and beyond. By opening up about his own story and focusing on initiatives that support children, Jan shows that sports go beyond just winning—they're about looking out for one another and finding strength as a team. He hopes his efforts inspire young athletes to believe in themselves and remember that they’re never alone in their struggles. Download HEADER app now Android Version iOS Version

  • Young Athletes with Anxiety Disorder: Simple Tips for Parents to Support Their Children

    Parents, this is for you. You know how important it is to encourage your child to be creative, try new things, and have strong character. But sometimes, when your child feels nervous about doing something important to them, like playing a game or giving a presentation in class, they might feel like their anxiety is holding them back. Well, Many young athletes with anxiety disorder face this problem in silence. It is a common concern, and it can be hard for parents to know how to deal with it. If your child is anxious, it's necessary to make sure this doesn't stop him from playing. Well, your main role is to prevent him from giving up. Anxiety can often be managed by changing how you and your child see situations. If your child doesn't play, his anxiety can get worse and affect other areas of his life. On the other hand, if he does play, it can help ease some of his anxiety by having a good time and enjoying the activities he loves. Here are some tips to help your child manage their performance anxiety. As you’ve noticed, it’s all up to you, parents! Tips to Help Young Athletes with Anxiety Disorder Identify the Source of Their Anxiety First, it can be helpful to assist children and teens playing sports to identify the source of his anxiety. What is making him anxious? Is he afraid of failing or succeeding? Does he fear being judged by others? Is he worried about not being at his best or not meeting expectations based on past experiences or fears? Understanding the causes of your child's performance anxiety is the first step to managing the situation. By sitting down with your child and asking these questions, you will better understand what needs to be done to help your child live without constantly feeling performance anxiety. Naming their feelings can help your child better understand what he is going through. You got the point, right? It’s like you will make a diagnosis before doing anything. Adopt Positive Self-Talk Discuss positive and negative self-talk with your child. Based on many youth sports psychology studies, this is an important topic for young athletes, who may not realize the difference between positive and negative thoughts. Use examples from his real life, like when he was nervous before his last sports tests, he was afraid of failing or maybe being among the list of bad soccer players at school. He worried about what might happen, but in the end, everything went well. You can also share a story from your own experience to illustrate your point. Header believes in communication and its goal is to help children understand their internal dialogue when facing situations that cause performance anxiety. Teach them to focus on the process rather than the results. One great way to reduce anxiety is to concentrate on what they are doing at the moment instead of worrying about future outcomes. Strategies for Managing Performance Anxiety The best way to manage performance anxiety is to try new strategies. Encourage your child to try different approaches and see what works best for him. How? You can help your child develop relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing before and during competitions. The body tends to tense up when we are nervous or anxious, which can make things worse. Encourage your child to take deep breaths and slow their movements during practice to stay relaxed throughout the session. You know, it’s time to anticipate and learn yoga or meditation for performance anxiety for the sake of your child. Tell your child to focus on the task at hand and ignore thoughts of failure. It's easy for young athletes with performance anxiety to think about everything that could go wrong during a sports event, but these worries will only increase their stress. Encourage your child to focus on each action, not the future results or past mistakes. Though easier said than done, the key is to concentrate on the present moment and minimize worries about what might happen. Provide Necessary Support A big part of parents don’t distinguish between anxiety and fear. Anxiety results from negative self-talk, while fear comes from something real, like an opponent or a past situation. Knowing the difference can help you choose the best way to help your child overcome performance anxiety. For example, if your child is nervous because he fears failing or making mistakes, but has no reason to believe this will happen (like in a first competition), encourage him by saying things like, “I’m proud of you for getting this far!” If they have real fear based on past experiences, like being hurt by another player during practice, reassure him with words like, “It’s going to be okay” or “You’ll be fine.” Parental support is invaluable and should focus more on the child’s efforts and progress rather than his performance. Remember It's a Normal Reaction Performance anxiety is a normal reaction to the pressure of performing in front of others, whether in a sports competition, musical performance, or public speaking. It can be caused by various factors, including fear of failure, the desire to succeed, and the anticipation of being judged by others. Remind your child that performance anxiety is not permanent. Everyone feels nervous at times, even top athletes. It's normal and can happen to anyone. It's not a sign of weakness or failure; nervousness is part of the game. Encourage your child to focus on the process, not the result. Remind him that his best effort is what matters, not the final outcome. And trust us, if you follow these tips, you will become a great parent and a person with whom your child can share all his secrets and worries.

  • Youth Sports Psychology: The Influence of Parents on Children’s Performances in Sports Competition

    Here's the deal. Parents play a major role in their children's lives, in particular those playing sports. You know, since the 1980s, research in youth sports psychology has paid special attention to the influence of parents on children's results and experiences in competitive sports. Studies confirm what Header does in each article that parents play a central element in the psychological development of their children. The quality of the sports environment for young athletes has a big impact on their sporting experiences. Alongside coaches, parents hold an essential place in the social support system:  they can influence their children's psychological personality, sports performance, and long-term engagement. Parents represent the most significant influence in children and teenagers playing sports (up to around the age of 13) and continue to build their sporting career by being their managers, as Neymar and Messi's parents do, a good example, isn’t it? The forms of influence that parents can exert are diverse. First let’s be clear. Good parents are the ones who facilitate their children's participation in sports by taking them to training or competitions and providing the necessary financial resources. There is no such thing as ‘I’m busy’ when you’re a father. At the same time, parents communicate their values ​​and expectations to their children. They also play a crucial role in shaping the child's perceptions of his own abilities, goals, and in explaining his performance. And this is possible. Through their feedback, the motivational climate they create, and the nature of their emotional support. All of this can positively influence mental health in athletes, whether they are children, teens or even adults. The positive influence of parental support. By encouraging their children, promoting the concept of hard work, and valuing progress in learning, parents help improve the child's awareness of their own abilities. They develop high self-esteem as well as increase motivation and enjoyment even for competitive sports. Not only that, but research has shown that children's perception of parental support is associated with decreased stress and greater continuity in sports which is called 'commitment' especially in competitive sports for teens. Parental pressure or negative parenting practices. Many studies in youth sports psychology indicate that parents’ inappropriate attitudes increase children's anxiety, reduce self-perception and the feeling of competence, or can even lead to the abandonment of sports activities. But how? Negative parenting practices include excessively high or unrealistic performance expectations, pressure to reach a certain level based on the parents' own beliefs about their child's success in sports, excessive emphasis on winning, and negative reactions to defeat, such as making bad comments or being harshly critical. The line between pressure and support is often thin. The distinction between parental behaviors of pressure (considered negative) and supportive attitudes is not necessarily clear. Parental influence depends on the child's perception and interpretation. Studies have found that high levels of perceived pressure by teens playing sports were considered positive by them in terms of improving their sports performance. A survey of 201 families revealed that behaviors deemed positive or negative were, in certain situations, associated with both pressure and support. Finally, depending on the age of the athletes, parents' presence at competitions can be interpreted as support or felt as embarrassing. These contradictory results highlight the importance of understanding how parents and children communicate. Well, according to Header's point of view, we think it is better for parents to have such a blacklist of words that they should avoid in order to boost their children's performance. The influence of the quality of parent-child relationships. Recent research on mental health in athletes has focused on understanding how parental behaviors influence children's psychosocial outcomes in sports. Based on theories from social psychology and interpersonal communication, these studies indicate that the quality of the relationship between parents and children promotes not only performance improvement and increased self-esteem but also the athlete's flourishing. In this sense, by studying parent-child interactions in various sports, researchers have highlighted the importance of support that athletes receive from their parents. You know, sometimes parents are the real causes behind making their children bad soccer players. The study showed that youth soccer players whose parents listened attentively understood their needs, valued them, and cared for their well-being reported feeling less anxious before or during competition, higher self-esteem, and a higher level of thriving than athletes whose parents showed low levels of responsive support. Conclusion. The results of the latest research in youth sports psychology align with the recent concept of athletes thriving in competitive sports. This concept studies the conditions of the sports environment that lead to positive long-term results and optimal well-being. That's all we have for today, feel free to use the comments section if you have any questions or you can simply share your story with us.

  • Mental Health in Athletes: Why Team Sports Matter for Children

    It's a fact, mental health in athletes benefits from team sports, as evidenced by a 2022 research study published in Human Development. The study found that participation in team sports, such as hockey, soccer, or basketball, during childhood is associated with better psychological health (i.e., fewer symptoms of depression, anxiety, and social isolation), whereas this effect is not observed for individual sports (e.g., swimming and tennis). Mental Health in Athletes: A Study On Child Development Media Interpretation and Parental Decisions Some media picked up on the conclusions of this study and suggested that parents should enroll their child in a team; otherwise, the positive effects of sports on mental health would be incomplete. Of course, one should avoid this quick conclusion. Although team sports are associated with several benefits for the mental health of children and adolescents, individual sports also have their share of benefits. In fact, individual sports can be effective for learning emotional regulation, resilience, and personal discipline. Physiological and Social Mechanisms As we mentioned before, sports for teens and children is good for mental health because it helps release chemicals in the brain, like endorphins and neurotransmitters, which make us feel better. But it's not just about the physical activity. If it’s the case, then any intense exercise would have the same mental health benefits, but that's not the case. The real benefit comes from a mix of physical and social factors. Team sports, in particular, offer unique social experiences that individual sports do not. These include feeling like part of a group and making friends. Team activities, like wearing the same uniforms, cheering together, and being part of a team, help kids feel they belong and contribute to their social and emotional development. Comparative Benefits of Team and Individual Sports The sense of belonging to their group is more conducive in team sports, and this partly explains why young people who participate in them have fewer depressive symptoms than those who participate in individual sports. However, such a sense of belonging can also be present in other organized activities where group dynamics are cultivated, such as theater, scouting, or music groups. Thus, in a situation where a child does not like team sports, parents should not hesitate to offer these other activities, as the benefits the child derives would largely be determined by social experiences. Friendships and Social Bonds Another mechanism often mentioned by researchers concerns the characteristics of the friendships that the child maintains in team sports. In many cases, children play these sports with already known friends, and some may even make new ones. These friendships are likely to be somewhat different depending on the type of sport practiced. A study reports that teenagers playing sports in individual sports consider their friends who participate with them to be more focused on improving their skills in a selfish way, while friendships in team sports are perceived as more supportive. If having a supportive social network is an important determinant of good psychological health, then team sports would potentially offer the same advantages. One hypothesis is that members of a sports team experience victories and defeats together, which could have the effect of strengthening the bonds between them and making them feel supported in other areas of their lives. Team sports are obviously not the only context where a child can form and maintain quality and supportive friendships, but these activities can give them a boost in this regard. Conclusion In summary, our recent youth sports psychology study on team sports indicates that this type of activity promotes positive social contexts that are beneficial for the psychological well-being of children. However, it is not imperative for a parent to push their child to enroll in a team sport. Everything seems to indicate that the benefits of organized team sports lie in the interaction between physical health benefits and social experiences. Consequently, the development of mental health in athletes relies on a healthy and active lifestyle, but also on the people that surround them. If your child doesn't prefer pyhical activities, there are several other solutions than team sports. Other organized activities are conducive to cooperation, social integration, and the formation of positive friendships. These activities vary depending on the schools, and it is sometimes very relevant to inquire the complet program of activities for your child. This will help him them to make a form a picture of the possible options they have.

  • 5 Self-Care Strategies for Young Athletes By Dr. Saltzman

    Hey parents! Today, we’re talking about how to help young athletes balance their busy lives and take care of themselves. From dealing with pressure on social media to juggling school, sports, and other activities, our kids face a lot of stress. This is why we are going to discuss the important self-care strategies in a way to support them. Meet Dr. Amy Saltzman Dr. Amy Saltzman, the author of A Still Quiet Place for Athletes, believes that mindfulness helps athletes manage stress and perform better in sports and life. She says, "Being mindful means simply being aware of what's happening here and now with kindness and curiosity." This approach not only enhances performance but also plays a crucial role in improving mental health in athletes. Mindfulness helps young athletes understand what works best for them during training, competition, and daily life, leading to better overall well-being. 5 Simple Self-Care Strategies for Young Athletes 1. Prioritize Rest Rest is crucial. According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, getting enough sleep improves performance, mood, and reactions. Dr. Saltzman notes that while pushing limits can lead to progress, too much can cause burnout and injuries. It’s essential to balance training with proper rest to avoid these issues. Proper rest is also one of the key benefits of youth sports, as it helps children, teens and adults to maintain their health and sustain their enthusiasm for their activities. For athletes with cognitive or intellectual disabilities, they may need more time to rest and process information. Regular breaks are important to keep them from feeling overwhelmed. 2. Make Healthier Food Choices Guess what? Fueling the body with nutritious foods is vital for young athletes, both children and teens. Dr. Saltzman encourages them to pay attention to what they eat and how it makes them feel. Over time, they can learn which foods help them perform their best. She suggests natural foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, dairy, and eggs. For athletes with food sensitivities, it's important to find healthy options they enjoy and can eat comfortably. 3. Drink More Water Proper hydration is key. Dr. Saltzman says that even a little dehydration can hurt performance. Encourage your child to drink plenty of water, especially when traveling or playing in hot, humid, or high-altitude environments. So, from now on, make sure to buy a water bottle for your child. And if he likes superheroes, that's okay! Bring him the one with the Flash character. 4. Focus on Conditioning Generally, athletes benefit from a comprehensive conditioning routine that includes strength, speed, endurance, flexibility, and core exercises. Dr. Saltzman advises young athletes to be mindful during these exercises, paying attention to how their bodies feel. This awareness helps them know when to push harder and when to rest. One of the benefits of competitive sports is that they encourage this kind of comprehensive conditioning, which not only improves performance but also promotes overall physical health. For athletes with physical disabilities, coaches can modify exercises to suit their needs, ensuring everyone gets the most out of their workouts. 5. Develop Game Day Routines Game day can be charged, so having a routine helps teenagers playing sports feel ready to perform. Dr. Saltzman suggests creating a packing list, bringing healthy snacks and water, and developing a mental prep habit like listening to music, practicing mindfulness, or visualizing success. For athletes with disabilities, sticking to a set schedule can reduce anxiety and help them feel more in control. Coaches should try to follow the routine closely and give advance notice if something changes. Final Thoughts Supporting your young athlete with these self-care strategies can make a big difference in their performance and overall well-being. Remember, the goal is to help them enjoy their sport, stay healthy, and manage stress effectively. Which tip did you find most helpful? Let us know in the comments below!

  • Benefits of Youth Sports: Why Should Children Play Physical Activities?

    There is a growing concern about the rise of health issues among children and teens. It’s time to react. Parents and coaches need to take action. Benefits of youth sports can address this issue by not only promoting physical health but also safeguarding mental well-being. Viewing sports as a means to provide support for our youth is essential. Why should children play sports? You know, statistics indicate an increase in health disorders among young people. The number of Canadians aged 15 and above experiencing anxiety disorders doubled between 2012 and 2022. Importance of Mental Health in Sports Reduces Stress When feeling stressed or anxious, participating in activity can help reduce these feelings. Studies have shown that exercise reduces stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, which results in enhanced relaxation for your child after exercise. What else? Engaging in activity also promotes the release of hormones such as oxytocin and serotonin that are closely linked to feelings of joy, calm, and serenity. This tip is not only for children, but for parents too…think of it, ok? Improves Memory and Focus Another advantage of physical activity is its ability to enhance memory and concentration. It appears that children athletes tend to have better concentration skills compared to inactive ones. Therefore, if your child participates in sports activities, he or she may find it easier to concentrate in school. This is likely to lead to an improvement in their performance. Enhances Mood Engaging in physical activities can have a positive impact on one's mood. This is due to the influence exercise has on the brain. The value of sports lies in their ability to alter neurotransmitters, which are substances that transmit messages between brain cells, leading to a sense of happiness for your child. After exercise, the body releases endorphins, often referred to as "happiness hormones," which can alleviate stress and anxiety while reducing the likelihood of depression. Helps to Sleep Better It is known that good sleep is crucial to overall physical, mental, and emotional health. But did you know that regular exercise can also contribute to better sleep patterns? Your child doesn't have to be a star athlete; just engaging in activities can be helpful. Even if your child isn't keen on sports, there are ways to keep them active. Boosts Self-Confidence Exercise can also play a role in boosting self-confidence, which is vital to a young person's well-being. Engaging in activities can help your child feel more positive about their appearance and self. We believe these elements greatly affect an individual's self-esteem. Builds Relationships with Others If your child is feeling lonely or having difficulty connecting with others, engaging in group activities can create a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of isolation. Sharing interests is a way to create friendships. Building connections, sharing experiences, and working towards shared goals can help your child feel happy. Importance of Regular Exercise According to guidelines issued by the Government of Canada, teens between the ages of 12 and 17 should participate in moderate to intense activities for at least an hour per day. This recommendation is important for children and teenagers playing sports in order to stay in a good mood. Emphasizing the importance of mental health in sports is crucial as it contributes greatly to growth and development. For example, young soccer players benefit not only physically but also from regular physical exercise. No matter what type of exercise your child prefers — whether it's walking outdoors, participating in team sports, or exercising independently — the key is to stay active every day. Wrapping Up That's all we have for today. We trust that you found this information about the benefits of youth sports useful and motivating. So please make sure to encourage your children to stay active and remember that it is not just about the physical benefits but also the significant impact on their mental health.

  • What Specialists Think of Burnout in Youth Sports: Causes, Effects, and Prevention

    So, here’s the deal. Over 60 million American kids and teens play organized sports. But, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, 70% of them drop out by age 13. Why? They feel drained, stressed, injured, or just lose the fun. This is what we call burnout in youth sports. The intense pressure and high demands lead many young athletes to give up. To help kids recover physically and mentally, researchers say they need breaks. They should take one or two days off each week and stay away from sports for two to three months each year. Constant pressure to commit early to sports can lead to stress from excessive training, poor sleep, academic issues, and family problems. What Specialists Think of Burnout in Youth Sports? The Psychology of Giving Up For her part, sports medicine specialist Dr. Rebecca L. Carl said that children “need time for homework, family responsibilities, free play, and time to rest,” pointing out the mistaken perception that overtraining is the most effective way for a child to achieve athletic success in the future. This perception contributes to the psychology of not liking sports among young athletes. Excessive Stress Can Erase the Benefits of Sports Playing organized sports is great for kids. Dr Cassidy Davelar says it improves motor skills, cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle strength, healthy weight, and endurance. It also builds social bonds, boosts academic performance, and teaches teamwork, communication, and how to handle conflicts. But, if sports become too stressful, these benefits can disappear, and kids might stop playing altogether. When Do Children Benefit from Stress? A survey showed that many kids quit sports because they couldn’t meet the performance or appearance expectations they see in the media and on social media. This highlights the challenges in burnout in athletes. Dr. Kody Moffat says parents often push their kids towards professional sports without realizing this pressure can make them quit. Kids want to stay active, play, and have fun with friends, not just win. How to Prevent Burnout in Youth Sports On the other hand, and despite the common impression that stress, in general, may negatively affect children’s health, performance and productivity, research conducted by Staffordshire University in the United Kingdom showed, “Stress isn’t always a bad thing, but rather young athletes can use it better to their advantage, to increase their enjoyment of games.” Dr. Paul Mansell, the study's lead researcher, found that children and teens playing sports can maintain their mental health and improve their performance when they begin to feel tired, by using simple cognitive behavioral therapy techniques. Helping young athletes reach the recommended 60 minutes or more of moderate physical activity daily may make them better cope with stress and contribute to reducing negative feelings about competition. It helps improve their athletic performance and benefits them on and off the field. 7 Ways to Make Sports Beneficial for Children Here are some recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics for parents and coaches: Having fun is more important than pressure to win prizes. Dr. Moffat says kids should enjoy playing more than parents enjoy watching them. Encourage their independence and let them talk about their successes and failures in games. This helps turn these experiences into valuable life lessons. Correct understanding of the meaning of sporting success. Losing can build character and make kids try harder next time. Talk to them calmly about their losses without blaming them or others. Avoid excessive training. Too much training without enough rest can harm a child’s performance and increase the risk of injury. Don’t underestimate injuries. Overtraining can cause injuries to bones, muscles, or tendons. Kids feel pressure to keep playing despite pain. It’s crucial to let them rest until they fully recover. The importance of sleep and nutrition. Kids need 8 to 10 hours of sleep for recovery and performance. Make sure they get enough protein, carbs, fruits, vegetables, and even fats. Monitor signs of fatigue. Fatigue is a leading cause of kids quitting sports. Signs include loss of interest, sleep problems, anxiety, and decreased academic and athletic performance. Inclusiveness instead of focusing on sports only. Let kids try different activities after the season ends. It doesn’t have to be another sport; it could be something artistic that refreshes them physically and mentally. By following these tips, we can help prevent burnout in youth sports and ensure that young athletes maintain a healthy balance between sports and other aspects of their lives.

  • Understanding and Preventing Burnout in Youth Sports: Case Studies and Strategies

    Today, we're going to discuss a critical topic: burnout in youth sports, among children and teenagers. If you are reading this article, you will be one of the two, a parent or a coach. So please don't hesitate to share your experience with us in the comment section. You know, it's a worrying phenomenon that affects about 5% of young high-level athletes. This isn’t just about physical exhaustion; it’s a deep psychological issue too. Mattia Piffaretti, a renowned sports psychologist, highlights that this burnout in athletes stems from intense pressure and the relentless demand for peak performance. Let's explore how this impacts children and adolescents and how to prevent it. Everything to Know About Burnout in Youth Sports Case Studies: Francine and Philippe Take Francine, for example. She’s 16 and has been sprinting since she was 12. Initially, her results were superb, but recently, she's noticed her performance stagnating. She feels increasingly tired and unmotivated. Then there's Philippe, 15, a talented artistic gymnast who joined national teams at a very young age. Since hitting puberty and dealing with the pressures of his training and studies, he's been constantly fatigued and often feels down. His sports performance has declined, putting his position on the national team at risk. Understanding Sports Burnout So, what exactly is sports burnout? Well, it often shows up as a withdrawal, both physically and mentally, from competitive sports. Kids like Francine might switch coaches, suffer frequent injuries, or even think about quitting. Philippe’s symptoms include fatigue, sleep issues, and signs of depression. But here’s the kicker: Young athletes often hide these feelings, choosing to “grit their teeth” rather than admit they’re struggling. The psychology of not liking sports plays a significant role here, as young athletes may start to resent the very activity they once loved. The Root Causes The reasons behind youth sports burnout are multiple. Many young athletes tie their identity solely to their sport, making them feel lost when their performance dips. Factors like their personality, optimism, and perseverance play a crucial role in how well they handle stress. Adolescents also feel that long training hours cut into their social lives and leisure activities, which are vital for their overall well-being. The Role of Parents and Coaches Parents, listen up, because your role is significant too. Over-involvement, like what Philippe experiences, can push kids towards burnout. Young athletes might crave independence from their parents, but overly strict parental control can lead to conflicts and a rejection of sports altogether. Coaches can also contribute to this issue. Harsh, negative coaching styles can make kids devalue themselves, leading to self-punishment through excessive training. Athletes helping athletes can also be a beneficial strategy, as peer support can provide a sense of solidarity and understanding. Preventing Sports Burnout Preventing burnout requires a precise approach. For Francine, we believe she needs to focus on her physical well-being, social connections, and the joy of quality training rather than just winning. Her coach should recognize over-motivation and help set realistic goals. Philippe, on the other hand, might need family support. His parents should reconsider their expectations and become his cheerleaders rather than critics. Support Systems and Interventions Header is clear about this. It's crucial for sports federations and schools to establish support units with doctors, psychologists, dietitians, and physiotherapists. These teams can regularly assess young athletes to identify those at high risk of burnout and provide appropriate interventions. When considering which of these is a helpful treatment for burnout, a comprehensive approach involving multiple specialists is often the most effective. This shift from curing burnout to preventing it is key to ensuring the well-being of young athletes. Conclusion To wrap up, protecting our young athletes from burnout means creating a balanced environment where fun and well-being take centre stage over relentless performance. Together, we need to work towards fostering a healthy, fulfilling sports culture for our children and teens.

  • The Importance of Physical and Mental Health in Athletes: How Parents Can Make a Difference

    We have a lot of people at home who have kids practicing sports of all ages, from 5 to 18 years old. What can we tell those parents who have athletes and non-athletes? How do they stay balanced and healthy? And what is the importance of parents in supporting the mental health in athletes, particularly children and teens? The Role of Parents in Youth Sports The real challenge, we think, for the parents is to disengage more. You know, you want to push your children towards something; you want to live vicariously through them. Youth sports benefits are numerous, and sports are a great conduit for children to grow and develop, become confident individuals, and contributing members of a team. They also learn what that's about and to be able to take coaching, instruction, feedback, and consequences from someone else that's not a parent. That's something they're going to need in life when they acquire a boss. Finding the Right Coach So, you know, my first piece of advice is: go find, if you want to get really involved, make sure that your son or daughter has a great coach and don't let them work with someone who's not thoroughly invested in seeing them be successful. And that's first and foremost. Then just trust that coach and try to pull away and just be a parent. Because too often that overbearing parent really does a lot of harm to their child's development, their ability to flourish and take advantage of whatever their God-given natural talents may be. Encouraging Diverse Athletic Experiences So that's the main thing. When it comes to their actual development as an athlete, the best thing they can do is let them find their passion, play as many sports as they can, and pursue the joy of it. Now, you may disagree about giving your child a space to try all possible sports. We know we can understand your point, and there's a lot of anxiety with parents concerning this. They say, "But if my kid doesn't play soccer year-round, tennis year-round,..etc how is he going to compete? This concern is especially prevalent among parents of youth soccer players who worry about their children falling behind. The Benefits of Multi-Sport Participation What can we say to parents who think this way? It's legitimate, they want to see their children succeed, do well, and have those opportunities, maybe opportunities that they didn't have. They want more for their kids, and again, that's how you get into this arrogant mode. Give your child enough time and space to test and choose the sports he or she prefers. Teens playing sports will be better athletes if they have a variety of skills acquired through playing multiple sports, regardless of gender. Example of Complementary Sports For example, if your child looks like a volleyball player, think about the dynamics of that sport. Explosive and powerful movements, jumping off the ground, landing hundreds of times, diving to the ground - it's a kind of overhead throw. Perfect complement for that? Water polo. Surprisingly! Get your child off the playground and into the water. This training will now affect your child's upper and lower body. Instead of developing swing contact speed, he resists it because he holds the ball in his hands. This is great for your child's shoulder. When he gets out of water polo and returns to playing volleyball, his legs will be refreshed, and they will be strong in all the areas that were weak from being hit on the ground due to the movements required to tread water, swim and move around. Now he no longer suffers from the constant abuse that leads to stress fractures. This is just one example. But what if your child plays playground sports, such as soccer? What other sports might be useful for soccer? A lot of the combinations you'll see in youth soccer players are basketball and sports. They both complement young footballers and improve their dribbling skills. Staying Connected with Coaches As mentioned earlier, as a parent, you need to stay in touch with your child's coach to get an update on his development and skills. Especially for teenagers playing sports, tennis or any other sport, these guys are mature men. They're technically adults, but their bodies are still changing. Some of them are getting taller, they are definitely adding muscle to their bodies, and their bones are becoming denser. This full physical maturity continues in the transition from childhood to adolescence to adulthood. Supporting Mental Health in Athletes Now that we've discussed the good things about soccer, swimming, volleyball and all sports from the physical aspect and how it can contribute to creating a better athlete, we'll relate it to the positive impact parents have in children's lives and how their support can boost their children's overall mental health. Tips for Supporting Your Child's Mental Wellness Encourage Emotional Expression Encourage your child to express his feelings, whether it's happiness, sadness, anger, or fear. It's important for them to know that their emotions are valid and that they have a safe space to talk about them. Listen to them without judgment and help them find healthy ways to cope with difficult emotions. Ensure Adequate Sleep Sleep plays a critical role in our mental and physical health. Establish a consistent bedtime routine and encourage your child to wind down before bed. This could include reading a book, taking a bath, or practicing some relaxation techniques. Limit Screen Time While technology has its benefits, excessive screen time can have a negative impact on mental health. Encourage your child to engage in other activities such as reading, playing board games, or spending time with family and friends. Prioritize Family Time Spending quality time together can help strengthen family bonds and create a sense of security and belonging for children. Plan activities that everyone can enjoy, and make sure to put aside distractions such as phones and work. Remember, mental wellness is not just about avoiding problems, but also building resilience and coping skills. Incorporating principles from youth sports psychology can be particularly beneficial in this regard. By following these steps, you can help support your child's mental wellness and set them up for a healthier and happier future.

  • Easy Tips On How to Coach Youth Soccer Players?

    It’s a fact: Learning how to coach youth soccer players requires special standards. Such as understanding that each child's needs and development are unique. Coaching kids isn’t the same as coaching adolescents or adults. Patience and understanding are necessary skills when coaching young children. Your goal as a successful youth soccer coach should be clear; Improve their basic skills such as running, jumping, shooting, receiving and throwing. Which leads to the normal development and development of their agility, speed and balance. After all, coaching kids isn’t about developing the “next big talent”. Rather, it is about helping the child progress physically and mentally. Tips For Coaching Youth Soccer Players FOCUS ON FUN, NOT VICTORY Football, whether in play or practice, should always be an enjoyable activity for any child. At this early stage of their play journey, while it is important to lay the foundation for mastering basic skills, it is also essential that children have lots of fun. Also, one of the significant benefits of soccer for youth is that it fosters a love for the game and makes them happy. During development, it is important for a child to prioritize acquiring and refining skills rather than focusing on achieving victory. This stage represents a shift towards participation, as play is a necessary condition to support their progress. Additionally, the pressure to win or succeed every time can cause a young mind to tire of the sport very quickly, no matter how talented they are to begin with. Playing football should never be a chore. CREATE A SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENT Children should feel comfortable during their training. Every child will face different circumstances in life, from social pressures to pressures at home and school, and playing football with their friends is often the perfect way to escape. Whether it's expending a little extra energy, letting off steam, or just having fun, the framework you build around them will be an important aspect of their football training and help shape their attitude towards others. The best youth soccer coaches understand this and strive to create a positive atmosphere where young players can thrive. Have zero tolerance for bullying and make sure you are patient with children who make mistakes. MAKE EXERCISES FUN, TRY TO TURN THEM INTO CHALLENGES Practice makes perfect and children may reach higher skills than Messi or Ronaldo if they train well! But guess what? Children may change activities quickly if they don’t feel reward or pleasure from their training, and even the most talented youth soccer players can lose motivation to play if they feel overwhelmed, under pressure or unhappy with the way training is delivered. Start your sessions early by having fun with dynamic moves such as sideways swings, frog hops, jumping jacks, crab moves and bear crawls. Then you can move on to training drills and 5v5 matches. Furthermore, when coaching youth soccer, use the drills to your advantage and create a pleasant atmosphere by turning your usual soccer drills into games or challenges. This will challenge the team to participate in what might otherwise have been perceived as difficult exercises while helping them develop their key skills. You may even find that they become more creative as their confidence increases. Start simple and avoid overcomplicating the soccer drills you want the kids to participate in. Taking the time to do the session well will only benefit them and ultimately the team. GIVE POSITIVE AND CONSTRUCTIVE FEEDBACK One of the biggest challenges of youth soccer coaches is providing positive and constructive feedback without discouraging or upsetting the person concerned with their performance. There are ways to counter what may seem like negativity to help them build confidence and performance, and understand what actions to take to avoid making mistakes. To provide constructive criticism that benefits the child, avoid saying things like “You lose control of the ball too quickly.” Instead, use encouraging language like "if you slow down, you'll give yourself more time to guide the ball." Remember that coaching at this age is all about learning and development, no one should be perfect the first time (although you might encounter the occasional football prodigy during your coaching journey! ). CONGRATULATE PLAYERS While providing criticism is crucial it's equally important to acknowledge and commend work when it deserves recognition. Highlighting the good things about soccer, such as teamwork, discipline, and skill development, can significantly motivate children. When young players sense recognition and realize their coaches acknowledge their achievements, they become committed. As you know, this positive environment can inspire team members to aim for excellence driven by the desire to impress those around them. Whether that's friends, family or their coach. Therefore, remember to praise your players for their behavioral choices, new skills they've mastered, and adherence to instructions. Ok? Final Thoughts We believe that coaching youth soccer isn't just about teaching the game; it's about helping children grow in many ways. By making practices fun, creating a supportive environment, and giving positive feedback, coaches can help this young generation develop skills both on and off the field. Seeing young players gain confidence, build friendships, and enjoy the game is what makes coaching so rewarding

  • Youth Sports Benefits: The Importance of Physical Activity for Children's Mental Health

    Header is clear on this subject: children must be active and engage in regular physical activity to be healthy. An Australian study led by Dr. Assad Khan has just emphasized youth sports benefits and clarified that the earlier this physical activity is practiced in childhood, the more it promotes mental well-being in the very long term. Case Study: Key Findings & Recommendations Researchers from the University of Queensland have looked in more detail at the benefits of sport on our health and in particular at the impact of physical activity on the mental health of young people. More than 4,200 Australian children were then analyzed over a period of eight years, and the conclusions are clear. Children who regularly play sports from a young age have better mental well-being several years later. Benefits of Team Sports According to a study, team sports improve self-confidence, quality of life, and socialization and therefore mental health. But if practicing a team sport is beneficial for all children, researchers point out that the trend is even more noticeable among teens playing sports who “internalize their emotions” or “have difficulty socializing with their teammates.” Gender Differences in Youth Sports Among the children studied, boys therefore showed better results than girls, who turned less towards these collective activities. The authors of the study believe that this low participation of girls is explained by the stereotype according to which these sports are more reserved for the opposite sex, but also by the lack of self-confidence and in one's sporting abilities which is observed more among girls. This trend can be seen in youth soccer players, where boys often dominate the field. Challenges & Recommendations Not only that but the researchers explained that the main reason could be the lack of opportunities for girls to participate in team sports with boys, or maybe due to the limited sports choice offered in schools with small budgets. This limitation often affects the benefits of high school sports, which are crucial for developing social and mental skills. In their report, Australian scientists encourage the implementation of initiatives aimed at encouraging the practice of sporting activity from a very young age, but also at promoting the integration of both genders into team sports.

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