Module 1 - The Secondary School Athletic Trainer's Role in Supporting Adolescent Mental Health
| Mental Health Foundations for the Secondary School Athletic Trainer |
Abstract:
This video prepares secondary school athletic trainers to support adolescent mental health by exploring its definition, influencing factors, and their role in intervention. Mental health is presented as a holistic state of well-being. Participants will examine the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) like trauma, neglect, and household challenges, as well as the importance of positive influences such as supportive relationships. Athletic trainers will learn to recognize signs of distress, provide initial support, and connect students with appropriate resources, fostering resilience and well-being in the students they serve.
Learning Objectives:
- Define mental health.
- Identify common potential factors that may affect the mental health of adolescents.
- Analyze the role of the Secondary School Athletic Trainer in the treatment of mental health concerns and disorders.
- Recognize psychological concerns and behavioral signs in secondary school student-athletes, and collaborate with school professionals, mental health providers, and community resources to address them.
| Interassociation Recommendations for Developing a Plan to Recognize and Refer Student-Athletes With Psychological Concerns at the Secondary School Level: A Consensus Statement |
Abstract:
Adolescent and young adult athletes are vulnerable to mental health (MH) conditions like depression and anxiety due to sport-specific stressors. This article explores the role of athletic trainers and sports medicine teams in identifying, managing, and preventing MH conditions through education, screening, and emergency action plans. It emphasizes the importance of MHEAPs and timely referrals to MH specialists, while fostering a supportive environment.
Despite growing awareness, standardized MH screening and action plans are often lacking in sports settings. Many athletic trainers also lack sufficient training to address MH concerns effectively. This article highlights the need for a structured approach to MH education and care for athletes.
Learning Objectives:
- Develop and implement referral systems for student-athletes by working with athletic trainers, school staff, and mental health professionals to ensure timely care.
- Effectively manage mental health emergencies, ensure student-athlete safety, and navigate legal and ethical considerations, including confidentiality and mandated reporting.
- Promote mental well-being, educate student-athletes, parents, coaches, and school staff, and foster a supportive environment that reduces stigma and encourages help-seeking.
Course Level:
Essential
Course Domain(s):
Domain 1: Risk Reduction Wellness and Health Literacy
Domain 2: Assessment Evaluation and Diagnosis
Domain 3: Critical Incident Management
Domain 4: Therapeutic Intervention
Domain 5: Health Care Administration and Professional Responsibility
Keywords:
Mental Health, Adolescent Well-being, Psychological Crisis, Secondary School Athletic Trainers, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), Student-Athlete Mental Health, Mental Health Advocacy, Holistic Health, Mental Health Referral Protocols, School-Based Mental Health Support, Mental Health Intervention
Course Expiration:
This premium course offering must be completed within 12 months from the purchase date. Users who preregister will have 12 months from the date course access opens.
For full details, refer to the expiration policy on our FAQ page.
Amberly Mallon, MEd, LAT, ATC
Amberly Mallon is a licensed and certified athletic trainer who currently serves as a supervisor for the Parkview Sports Medicine athletic training department and the Residency Program Director for Parkview Health's CAATE-accredited Athletic Training Residency in Rehabilitation. Amberly was born and raised in Ohio and graduated from Ohio University with her BS in Athletic Training. Upon graduating from OU, she attended Urbana University to obtain her master's in Classroom Teaching while serving as a graduate assistant athletic trainer.
Amberly worked as an athletic trainer in physician practice in orthopedic spine reconstruction before coming to SportONE/Parkview Sports Medicine in 2013 and served as a full-time secondary school athletic trainer until 2022. She works in collaboration with the Physicians, Physical Therapists, Performance Specialists, Peak Performance coaches and Nutrition department to enhance the overall wellbeing and function of athletes.
Amberly utilizes her past experiences in the clinical, high school and collegiate settings to establish a strong foundation for the management and advancement of athletic trainers.
When not at work, Amberly enjoys traveling and spending time with her many nieces and nephews.