The Duke Sports Science Institute (DSSI) partnered with the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) to host the 'Let's Talk: Mental Health Symposium' for athletes and coaches this week.
Speakers included: Harry Stafford, MD, CSCS, MBA, DSSI Associate Director, MEAC Chief Medical Officer; Lisa Barber, Fomerr Worrld Champion Sprinter and TJ Graham, Retired NFL Player.
They discussed depression and anxiety in minority athletes; mistrust of the medical system; mental trauma and had a 'rap session' for athletes to address – unpacking baggage; compartmentalizing the athlete's day and life outside of athletics.
Dr. Stafford shared, "We hope to work with leagues nationwide to provide them with the 'Coaches Mental Health Playbook' our DSSI team developed. It is the only one in existence, and I am proud that we can provide this tool to help coaches and athletes."