HELP Podcast
Coach reassures a player by talking to them and patting them on their shoulder.
Article

How to support players with mental health problems

Here, we explain what mental health problems are and how coaches can support players who have them. 

Disability football
Communications and relationships
England Football Learning logo on a red background.

England Football Learning

2 mins - May 7, 2024

Someone has mental health problems when the way that they’re thinking, feeling or reacting is getting in the way of how they want to live. These problems can feel impossible to cope with. Mental health doesn’t always stay the same though. It's something that frequently changes for everyone.   

Here’s what the most common mental health problems can look like: 

  • Generalised Anxiety Disorder makes players constantly feel on edge. This can make concentration difficult. 
  • Social Anxiety Disorder leaves players struggling with social skills and change. It’s often at its worst when they come to training for the first time.  
  • Clinical Depression causes players to feel unhappy and hopeless. They might lose interest in things they used to enjoy, so watch out for long absences. 

Mental health problems can impact physical fitness, as players might not exercise for a long time. And some medications for mental health problems can sedate players. They can also cause side effects like dehydration and weight gain.  

These are just a few key impacts that we’ve highlighted. So, if you want to find out more, download this PDF. It has loads of key information and tips to help you support players with mental health problems.  


But remember, no two people with mental health problems are the same. Get to know them. Understand what motivates them. Find out how their condition affects them and what support they might need.   


Adapt sessions with the STEP framework (Youth Sports Trust, 2002). Space: Make space relatable to the game, make sessions fun and avoid stressful, over-technical practices. Task: Ensure all tasks are clear and have positive outcomes, avoid unnecessary standing still, link progressions to the game, make it fun, and praise all players accordingly. Equipment: Ensure the set up is easy to understand, clear and accessible, avoid stress, delays or clutter and ensure there’s an area to take a time out in if needed. Players: Ensure there’s a positive environment for all. A supportive coaching culture with inclusive behaviours will help players build confidence and self-esteem.
Adapt sessions with the STEP framework (Youth Sports Trust, 2002). Space: Make space relatable to the game, make sessions fun and avoid stressful, over-technical practices. Task: Ensure all tasks are clear and have positive outcomes, avoid unnecessary standing still, link progressions to the game, make it fun, and praise all players accordingly. Equipment: Ensure the set up is easy to understand, clear and accessible, avoid stress, delays or clutter and ensure there’s an area to take a time out in if needed. Players: Ensure there’s a positive environment for all. A supportive coaching culture with inclusive behaviours will help players build confidence and self-esteem.

Here are five top tips to help you support players with mental health problems: 

  • Get to know players’ support networks and local support services. Watch out for changes in behaviour and reach out for help if needed.  
  • Be patient. Some players might feel uncomfortable in a group setting. Let them adapt at their own pace or buddy them up with someone else.  
  • Be positive and sensitive with the way you say things. Give lots of praise to build confidence.  
  • Create shorter work intervals with rests for players who might tire quickly. 
  • Change can make some players anxious. Got a new coach, venue or timings? Give lots of notice to help them manage the change.  

If you haven’t already, download this PDF for more information on how to support players with mental health problems. It’s a handy resource to take with you to training.  

And if you want to find out more about mental health problems or disability football, check out these useful links:  

Related articles