When I recently spoke to college students about mental health, I began by pointing out something many athletes already know: the human body is a remarkable machine, and taking care of it is essential for peak performance. Athletes often commit hours to training, stretching, eating well, and getting the right amount of sleep. They know how to push their bodies while protecting them from harm. Yet, when it comes to mental and emotional health, many students, especially athletes, struggle.
The truth is, caring for our physical health is only half the story. Our emotional and mental well-being is just as important, and neglecting it can have serious consequences. Stress, anxiety, depression, and emotional fatigue can quietly build up, even in those who appear to be the strongest on the outside. Just as an athlete wouldn’t ignore a sprained ankle, students shouldn’t ignore the weight of unspoken emotions.
The Power of Naming Emotions
One of my favorite quotes comes from the beloved Mr. Rogers: “Anything mentionable is manageable.” This simple statement carries profound wisdom. When we put words to our feelings, whether those feelings are sadness, frustration, or fear, we take away some of their power. By naming emotions, we make them less overwhelming and more approachable.
Unfortunately, many students keep negative emotions bottled up because they don’t want to appear weak. But the reality is, talking about your struggles takes far more courage than hiding them. Sharing both the positive and the negative creates space for healing, connection, and growth. If an athlete can celebrate their physical victories, why shouldn’t we also be able to acknowledge our emotional challenges?
Caring for the Whole Person
Mental health and physical health are deeply connected. A student who is mentally exhausted will not perform well academically, socially, or athletically. Sleep problems, burnout, and even physical injuries can be tied to unaddressed stress or emotional pain. That’s why caring for the whole body, inside and out, is so important.
Taking care of your mental health might mean journaling, talking with a counselor, setting healthy boundaries, or simply opening up to a trusted friend. It could also mean recognizing when it’s time to step back from constant activity and allow your mind to rest. Just as athletes know when their muscles need recovery, students need to recognize when their emotions need attention.
Why Schools Must Lead the Way
Colleges and universities play a vital role in shaping not just the academic success of students, but their overall well-being. Providing spaces for open dialogue about mental health helps reduce stigma and empowers students to seek support before they reach a breaking point.
That’s why bringing in mental health speakers like Fabian Ramirez is so important during college mental health awareness month. Fabian addresses the challenges students face today and reminds them that being strong isn’t only about physical ability ,it’s also about emotional resilience. His message inspires students to prioritize their mental and emotional health just as much as their physical health, helping them build a foundation for long-term success.
When schools invest in a college motivational speaker on mental health, they give students the tools to thrive, not just in college, but in life. Because in the end, caring for the whole person is the greatest victory of all.
