How to Help an Athlete

For Student-Athletes, Teammates, Coaches, and Yourself

The following material refers to the WSC mental health procedure for all those involved with WSC athletics. The WSC Athletic Department requires a well-student check under these conditions with Student Health and Counseling Services for any flagged concerns on current pre-participation forms. This check will allow for an initial introduction to Student Health and Counseling Services, who they are and what resources they provide. This procedure gives guidance on how to proceed with any mental health concerns with members of your team.

Does this athlete need an immediate referral? Is this situation life-threatening?

Yes - referral is required:

Suicidal ideation: Statements such as "I'm ending it," " no one cares," or other similar comments
Discussions or evidence of self-harm: Discussing cutting, taking drugs or alcohol; visible scars or cuts, notable intoxication, or taking drugs/pills
Discussion of harming others: Threats to other people and discussion of means

What to do:

Call 911
Call Campus Security
Call Counseling Services
Stay with or go to the athlete
Notify athletic director and head coach

Unsure - referral may be recommended:

Behaviors to monitor: Changes in sleeping and/or eating habits; unexplained weight loss or gain; withdrawn from social contact; decreased interest in activities; lack of emotion or sudden changes in emotion; negative self-talk; anxiety or persistent worry
Triggering events: Poor performance; conflicts with coaches or teammate; debilitating injury or illness; concussion complimations; class concerns; changes in importance of sport (expectations/role of sport); previos history of mental health condition; burnout

What to do:

If a student-athlete presents with two or more of the above, a referral to Counseling Services is recommended. If any present in conjunction with indications of self-harm, refer immediately.
Call resources for information on how to proceed; let trainer or coach know; stay with teammate; call 911 if an emergency.

No - but may need follow-up:

If questions arise, call ahead to Counseling Services to see if referral is necessary 402-375-7321
Have a formal discussion with the student-athlete to address concerns
Have the student-athlete agree to and make and appointment with Counseling Services
Follow up with Counseling Servies to verify the student-athletes attendance
Notify athletic director and head athletic trainer