The NCAA is committed to supporting member schools in their effort to support the mental well-being of student-athletes. In short, mental health is a part of, not apart from, student-athlete health and is an integral part of the collegiate experience.
Recognizing mental health as an important dimension of overall health, the NCAA’s commitment to student-athlete mental health and well-being is codified in the NCAA Constitution, which states that athletics programs shall be conducted in a manner designed to protect, support and enhance the mental and physical health of student-athletes
Guidance and resources are available to empower schools in their responsibility to provide for the mental health of student-athletes. The NCAA promotes a culture of care, encourages help-seeking and supports the creation of healthy environments where mental wellness is prioritized and every student-athlete has access to the care they need to thrive.
Education & Resources
The NCAA Mental Health Best Practices provide evidence- and consensus-based recommendations to member schools for supporting and promoting student-athlete mental health. Schools are legislatively required to provide mental health services and resources to student-athletes, consistent with the Mental Health Best Practices.
Mental Health Best Practices
Mental Health Fact Sheets
National and 24/7 Mental Health Support Hotlinen
Student-athletes are encouraged to seek mental health support through their campus health center or athletics health care resources. The following hotlines offer free and confidential support for individuals in distress:
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call 988 or Text 988 or Chat online (available 24/7)
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) HelpLine: Call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or Text NAMI to 62640 (available M-F 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. EST)
- The Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ youth support): Call 1-866-488-7386 or Text START to 678678 or Chat online (available 24/7)
Educational Modules
Student-athletes, coaches, faculty athletics representatives and athletics administrators each play a vital role in fostering healthy environments that supports mental health and well-being. The NCAA offers interactive educational modules designed to promote mental wellness, build resiliency and encourage help-seeking behaviors. These resources aim to normalize conversations around mental health and empower individuals to support themselves and others on campus.
Student-athletes may use social media to help stay connected, follow their passions and share their journey, but having an online presence may also come with increased visibility and sometimes, unwanted attention. This course will help student-athletes understand the different forms of online harassment, its potential health and safety impacts and strategies that can help protect their well-being.
