E 255 Why Teen Athletes Struggle Mentally (and How to Help)

E 255 Why Teen Athletes Struggle Mentally (and How to Help)

Update: 2025-07-29
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 Are teen athletes under more pressure than we realize? 

In this episode, I sit down with Licensed Professional Counselor and cheerleading coach Kaitlyn Sampson to talk about the hidden mental health struggles young athletes face—and what parents, coaches, and educators can do to help.

From performance anxiety and perfectionism to overloaded schedules and parental pressure, Kaitlyn shares powerful insights from her work with teens on and off the field. As the founder of Mental Health Booster, she combines coaching and counseling to support the whole athlete, not just the stats.

🔹 How performance anxiety shows up in sports
🔹 The difference between coaching vs. counseling
🔹 Why parents sometimes push too hard without realizing it
🔹 How to support your teen’s mindset, motivation, and balance
🔹 What athletes really need to succeed long-term

Whether your teen is aiming for the next level or just trying to enjoy their sport again, this conversation is packed with tools and perspective to help them thrive.

👉 Connect with Kaitlyn: https://www.mentalhealthbooster.com
📲 Follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mentalhealthbooster

👇 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more weekly content on teen mental health & anxiety!

 

 🌟 NEW: December Parent Workshop — December 8 


 🙌 NEW: Pay-What-You-Want Test Anxiety Strategy Sessions (for Teens + College Students) 

Find my podcast
Email me: ccoufal@cynthiacoufalcoaching.com
Text me: 785-380-2064
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E 255 Why Teen Athletes Struggle Mentally (and How to Help)

E 255 Why Teen Athletes Struggle Mentally (and How to Help)

Cynthia Coufal | Teen Anxiety Coach | School Counselor | Parent Advocate | Help for Anxiety