This Student Athlete Mental Health Week, learn more about the powerful and transformative mission of Hilinski's Hope, working to increase awareness and education surrounding student athlete mental health and wellness.

The Need for Mental Health Awareness and Education Among Student Athletes

Student athletes face unique pressures and challenges that can significantly impact their mental health. Balancing rigorous training schedules, academic responsibilities, and the high expectations placed on them can lead to stress, anxiety, and even depression. A significant stigma remains prevalent in sports surrounding mental health that prevents many student athletes from seeking the help they need-- Which is why the growth of awareness surrounding student athlete mental health is increasingly important.

Educating student athletes, coaches, and support staff about mental health is crucial. By fostering an environment that encourages open dialogue and understanding, we can help reduce the stigma and provide the necessary resources for those in need. Awareness and education are the first steps in ensuring that student athletes can thrive both on and off the field.

Hilinski's Hope: A Beacon of Support and Advocacy

Hilinski's Hope Foundation was established in honor of Tyler Hilinski, a Washington State University quarterback who tragically took his own life in 2018. The foundation is dedicated to promoting mental health awareness and providing resources for student athletes. By advocating for better mental health care and support systems, Hilinski's Hope aims to prevent such tragedies from happening in the future.

The foundation's mission is to educate, advocate, and eliminate the stigma around mental health in sports. Through various programs and initiatives, Hilinski's Hope provides invaluable support to student athletes, connecting them with mental health resources and assisting universities to institutionalize best practices.

Impactful Initiatives During Student Athlete Mental Health Week

Student Athlete Mental Health Week is an impactful initiative aimed at raising awareness and providing support for student athletes. During this week, Hilinski's Hope collaborates with colleges, universities, and athletic programs to host events, workshops, and discussions focused on mental health.

These initiatives include informational and fun events geared towards managing stress and taking care of your personal wellness, educational seminars and handouts, as well as opportunities to meaningfully engage with peers, all designed to create a supportive community for student athletes. By bringing attention to the importance of mental health, these events play a crucial role in changing the culture within athletic programs and promoting a healthier, more supportive environment.

College Hill is proud to support Hilinski's Hope's initiatives during Student Athlete Mental Health Week by partnering to create Student Athlete Mental Health Boxes, filled with H3H's signature Green Ribbon wristbands, hair ties, helmet decals, lapel pins and more to help inspire awareness and promote the important mission of Hilinski's Hope at over 200 colleges and universities across the country.  

@HILINSKISHOPE AND @WSSU_ATHLETICS ON INSTAGRAM

Ways You Can Support Hilinski's Hope and Student Athletes

Supporting Hilinski's Hope and student athletes can make a significant difference in their lives. Here are a few ways you can get involved:

1. **Donate**: Financial contributions help fund H3H's initiatives across the country. Your donations can connect students with vital resources and support programs that help destigmatize mental illness. 

2. **Participate in Events**: Attend or volunteer at events hosted by Hilinski's Hope during Student Athlete Mental Health Week and beyond. Your participation helps raise awareness and shows your support for the cause.

3. **Advocate**: Use your voice to advocate for prioritized mental health support in athletic programs. Encourage open conversations about mental health and work to reduce the stigma associated with seeking help.

4. **Educate**: Share information about Hilinski's Hope, mental health resources and the importance of mental well-being with the student athletes, coaches, and support staff in your life. Knowledge is a powerful tool in promoting a healthier environment.

Together, we can make a lasting impact on bettering the mental health and well-being of student athletes, ensuring they have the support they need to succeed both in sports and in life. Thank you to Hilinski's Hope for their continued commitment to an ever-important mission!