When Politics Takes the Field – Uncovering the Hidden Strain on Teen Athletes
Written by Stacy Ingram, Mental Performance Coach
Stacy Ingram is a dedicated Mental Performance Coach for teen athletes and performers. She believes every teen deserves the chance to succeed at their highest level, to learn the skills and techniques needed to help them be at their best in sport, the arts and in everyday life.
In an era of heightened political tension, societal unrest, and information overload, athletes are not immune to the stress that surrounds them. While the focus in sports psychology has traditionally been on performance anxiety, confidence, and resilience, an emerging factor demands attention: the impact of political stress on an athlete’s mental game. Whether consciously or unconsciously, many athletes, especially young ones, absorb the stress of the world around them, and it shows up in their performance, mindset, and overall well-being.
Political stress and mental health impacts on athletes
The American Psychological Association (APA) confirms that daily political stress significantly affects individuals' mental health, leading to anxiety, emotional fatigue, and burnout. Young athletes, in particular, face additional cognitive burdens from balancing training, competition, school, and personal life. When political stress enters the mix, it can further tax their mental resources, making it harder to focus and maintain emotional stability. Sometimes, being mentally tired feels overwhelmingly exhausting.
Furthermore, research from Newport Academy highlights that more than two-thirds of youth report feeling "very or somewhat stressed" about national issues, with key concerns including social justice, climate change, and economic instability. Athletes who internalize these stressors may experience secondary PTSD, a psychological condition caused by prolonged exposure to distressing world events.
Teen mental health and political awareness
A New York Times study on teenagers reveals that many young people’s political identities are shaped by their families, communities, and social experiences. While some find empowerment in activism, others feel overwhelmed by the pressure to align with social or political causes.
A report from Evangelhouse adds that teen girls, in particular, are vulnerable to political stress due to the amplifying effects of social media. Constant exposure to online debates can lead to anxiety, helplessness, and even depression.
The role of social media as a stress amplifier
Social media can amplify stress like no other. The more time spent scrolling on a certain topic, the more stress can build. A Springtide Research survey found that a majority of young people consume political content on social media at least once a month. This exposure increases their likelihood of emotional exhaustion, burnout, and diminished mental performance.
Additionally, an APA study confirms that frequent exposure to political debates online leads to heightened stress and decreased motivation. Young athletes who spend hours scrolling through divisive content may find themselves emotionally drained before even stepping onto the field.
Strategies for parents & coaches to help athletes cope with political stress
Given these challenges, it’s essential for parents and coaches to provide young athletes with tools to navigate political stress effectively. Here are some science-backed strategies:
Limit social media exposure: Encourage athletes to take breaks from social media to reduce exposure to political conflict and heated debates.
Teach cognitive reappraisal: Help athletes reframe stressful political events in a way that reduces anxiety.
Create a safe space for discussion: Allow athletes to express their feelings without judgment, which can help relieve internalized stress.
Encourage focus on controllables: Shift their focus from political debates to factors they can control, such as effort, preparation, and mindset.
Promote mindfulness and resilience: Encourage athletes to engage in mindfulness exercises, such as meditation or journaling, to manage stress effectively.
Final thoughts
Athletes do not perform in a vacuum. The world around them, politically, socially, and emotionally, has an undeniable impact on their mental game. By recognizing how political stress infiltrates their mindset and equipping them with tools to navigate it, we can help them stay resilient, focused, and mentally strong. In a time when stress is at an all-time high, sports can serve as both an escape and a powerful platform for growth, unity, and self-discovery.
Be bold. Be brave. Be courageous.
Read more from Stacy Ingram
Stacy Ingram is a dedicated Mental Performance Coach specializing in empowering teen athletes and performers to overcome the invisible barriers that often hinder their performance. With a focus on the mental side of the game, her programs are designed to equip athletes and performers with the cognitive tools and resilience needed for success both in sports/the arts and in everyday life.
