From the thrill of scoring a winning touchdown to the heartbreak of a narrow defeat, sports can make or break your mood. Does this riskiness threaten to break your kids’ spirits? Here is how sports influence your kids’ mental health.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, athletes who are extremely concerned about their sport are at higher risk of mental health concerns, especially due to loss and injuries. According to the study, this issue increases when an athlete specializes in a specific sport and practices frequently.
Unfortunately, this can pose dangers for aspiring athletes. If your child sadly incurs an injury that curbs their time on the field or even brings an end to their sports career, it might be time for them to consider taking on a new lifestyle without their beloved sport. Naturally, this can be challenging, so it’s always good to discuss backup plans with your kids even before an injury or other setback occurs.
Still, such downsides should not discourage your children from playing sports. Not only is exercise important for their health, but they’ll improve their problem-solving, learn how to cope when things don’t go their way, and feel a sense of accomplishment when they win. Of course, there’s also the prospect of making friends in the process.