By Kary Patron/News Editor

Navigating the rigors of higher education is challenging and time-consuming, a task that becomes even more daunting for student-athletes who add hours of practice and conditioning to their weekly schedules.

The quest for success and the lofty expectations of collegiate sports contribute significantly to their stress levels. Striking a balance between elite athletic performance, academic commitments, and a healthy social life presents a formidable challenge for these young adults. Unique stressors such as these often lead to depression, body image issues, and anxiety among athletes. The stigma attached to mental health problems and the potential for unsupportive peers complicate their willingness to seek help.

Missouri Valley College, a small institution with a strong sports culture, is familiar with these challenges. Teresa Ceselski, Director of Student Health Counseling, notes that communication gaps between coaches and athletes exacerbate frustrations.

“Athletes express frustration when they feel their best efforts don’t translate to playing time, leading to further distress, depression, and anxiety,” Ceselski observes.

Transitioning to collegiate athletics, many athletes from Missouri Valley, who were standouts in their respective programs, find themselves in a highly competitive environment.

“They seek improvement and clear guidance. Vague feedback from coaches leaves them confused and demotivated,” Ceselski adds.

Injuries pose another significant stressor, especially in contact sports like football, sometimes ending athletic careers prematurely and leading to identity crises. Former MVC football player Cameron Kempff’s career was cut short due to a concussion sustained during summer camp, prompting a reevaluation of his identity without the sport he loves.

Jordyn Vrba, a Missouri Valley Athletic Trainer, highlights the mental toll of injuries.

“The stress from injuries can hinder the healing process, exacerbating the physical damage,” she explains.

External pressures also affect athletes’ mental well-being and performance. The departure of the Missouri Valley powerlifting coach during a crucial time led to missed opportunities, as was the case for senior Lauren Bates, who faced burnout and the tough decision to leave the team. The stigma of quitting weighed heavily on her, yet she found her way back, qualifying for nationals with new coaches at the helm.

The MVC softball team faced adversity with the sudden loss of a teammate, prompting Head Coach Kelly James to adopt a more empathetic approach. “It challenged me to be more than just a coach; showing my humanity helped strengthen our bond,” James reflects.

Personal stressors not only impact athletic performance but also academic achievements. Bates’s departure from the powerlifting team led to a decline in motivation and academic performance, underscoring the interconnectedness of mental health, athletics, and academics.

Ceselski emphasizes the importance of balance and positivity.

“Focusing on the positives in all aspects of life can significantly improve overall well-being,” she advises.

Missouri Valley College offers free counseling services to its students, with appointments available through student services and the counseling office, highlighting the institution’s commitment to supporting its students’ mental health and academic success.