Research shows that a significant proportion of mental health conditions start (or at least become apparent) during kids’ teenage years, with half of all cases beginning by the age of 14. It’s why early intervention is so important — it’s critical for helping to prevent long-term struggles and promote overall well-being. And, the United Way is banking on sports to do just that. 

There are so many benefits to youth sports participation, especially when it comes to mental health: improved psychological well-being, enhanced social development, and cultivation of essential life skills are just a few.

We love that how the “United in Play” campaign is addressing all of these, leveraging existing youth sports communities, and weaving in mental health resources, to help coaches and parents support the holistic wellbeing of their athletes.

YOUR NEXT PLAY:

We’ll keep shouting it: sports have the power to change lives. It’s not about becoming professional athletes, but about helping the next generation build a strong foundation for the future. Do you support any early intervention programs similar to “Unite in Play?” Share your success, missteps, and learnings in the comments, so that other industry leaders can learn from your experience.