Adolescents are particularly vulnerable to mental health symptoms due to biological, physical, social, and environmental changes occurring during this period of life and development. Moreover, adolescents must contend with a developing brain and physical changes brought on by puberty, an increase in psychosocial stressors associated with social pressures and interactions, and changing academic responsibilities. Research shows that there is a direct association between participation in school-based activities, including sport and a reduced risk of experiencing a major depressive episode. This session aims to quantify social, emotional and physical well-being in adolescent sport participants and discuss how equitable programming can facilitate healthier well-being across various sociodemographics.

Social determinants of health (SDOH) are social factors that can have direct or indirect effects on health, and they play a fundamental causal role in understanding health outcomes. Specifically, where individuals live, learn, work, play, worship, etc. powerfully shape health; and, these SDOH have a strong connection to athletic training healthcare. Understanding these concepts can help to improve patient-centered care and health equity. Within athletic training education and many continuing education platforms, SDOH have been a marginal focus as they relate to required competencies; however, SDOH have more recently been woven into updated education standards that facilitate patient-centered care. This educational program will aim to…