25 JUN. 2024 · Child and Adolescent Behavior Health's Trauma Led Specialist Mary Kreitz highlights the significant mental health challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth, including anxiety and depression exacerbated by lack of acceptance from family, friends, and community. She emphasizes that Pride events play a crucial role in helping these youth feel seen and supported through allies in the community. This discussion encourages individuals to learn how to foster acceptance and inclusivity for everyone.

18 JUN. 2024 · An athlete trains and works hard in the off season often doing weight conditioning, agility and performance work outs and participating in summer workouts and games. The athlete reaches their goal in season of starting or earning significant playing time only to see an injury sideline them for a few games or the season. Dr. Steve Graef's advice could be incredibly valuable for both coaches and parents in supporting athletes who are facing the disappointment and frustration of being sidelined by injury after working so hard to reach their goals. It's crucial for coaches to find ways to keep the injured athlete involved with the team and for parents to provide understanding and support as the athlete navigates their emotions. Injuries can indeed be a lonely and challenging experience, but with the right support system in place, athletes can overcome these obstacles and come back strong

4 JUN. 2024 · In identifying potential substance use among athletes, coaches and parents should watch for behavioral changes like mood swings or social withdrawal, physical symptoms such as bloodshot eyes or weight fluctuations, performance declines without explanation, shifts in social circles, and secretive behavior. If an athlete is caught using substances, a balanced approach is crucial. It's best to engage in open communication, provide education on the risks, offer support resources, and collaboratively develop an action plan. Consequences like temporary benching may be necessary, but they should be accompanied by support and rehabilitation efforts rather than mere punishment. Dr. Steve emphasizes a compassionate and proactive approach to assist athletes in navigating substance-related challenges.

21 MAY. 2024 · It sounds like Dr. Steve Graef is addressing an important issue in youth sports: the behavior of parents on the sidelines. Maintaining decorum and promoting sportsmanship among parents is crucial for creating a positive and supportive environment for young athletes. Parents play a significant role in shaping their children's attitudes towards sportsmanship. When they exhibit negative behavior, such as yelling at officials, players, or other parents, it sets a poor example for their children and can contribute to a toxic atmosphere. Dr. Steve Graef's advice likely includes strategies for parents to manage their emotions and behavior during games. This might involve techniques for staying calm, refraining from negative comments or actions, and focusing on positive reinforcement and encouragement for all players, not just their own child. Encouraging parents to remember the purpose of youth sports, which is to promote character development, teamwork, and physical activity, can also help them keep things in perspective. Reminding them that their behavior directly impacts their child's experience and the overall atmosphere of the game may motivate them to prioritize sportsmanship. Overall, fostering a culture of respect and sportsmanship starts with parents setting the right example. By promoting positive behavior on the sidelines, parents can contribute to a more enjoyable and beneficial experience for everyone involved in youth sports.

14 MAY. 2024 · It's disheartening to hear about instances where sportsmanship isn't upheld, especially considering the importance of teaching and modeling it from the outset of a player's athletic journey. Sportsmanship encompasses more than just the actions on the field; it's about respect, integrity, and empathy towards opponents, teammates, coaches, and officials. The prevalence of social media and instant sharing has indeed intensified the spotlight on athletes' behaviors, both positive and negative. While it's great for celebrating good sportsmanship moments, it also means that instances of poor behavior can quickly spread and have lasting consequences. Parents and coaches play a significant role in shaping athletes' attitudes and behaviors, both on and off the field. It's crucial for them to prioritize positive reinforcement, constructive criticism, and respectful communication, rather than resorting to abusive or overbearing tactics. Recent statisitics indicate 55% of coaches have witnessed parents yelling abusively at their kid from the sideline and 40% have inserted themselves as sideline coaches. What effect does this have on the athlete? The statistics mentioned highlight a concerning trend of parental overinvolvement and inappropriate behavior on the sidelines. It's essential for sports organizations, schools, and communities to address these issues through education, clear guidelines, and support systems to promote a healthier and more positive sports culture for athletes at all levels. Dr. Steve provides some great tips for athletes to maintain good sportsmanship at all times.

4 MAY. 2024 · Mental health among teens is such an important topic, and having students from different high schools sharing their viewpoints can provide a broader perspective on how different communities address these issues. Mary Kreitz's experience in clinical work likely helped guide the conversation in a productive and empathetic direction, while Jacki Power's dual perspective as both a teacher and a parent likely added depth to the discussion. It's great to see communities coming together to address these crucial issues affecting young people. Panelists include students from Canton Central Catholic, Massillon Washington, Canton McKinley and Sandy Valley high schools in Stark County, Ohio, have an honest discussion about their viewpoints on mental health covering a variety of topics. The panel was moderated by C&A's Mary Kreitz, who has more than 20 years experience as a clinical staff member. 

30 ABR. 2024 · Absolutely, fostering a culture of good sportsmanship within a team is crucial for creating a positive and respectful environment, both on and off the field. Coaches play a pivotal role in shaping the attitudes and behaviors of their players. By emphasizing values such as respect, integrity, and empathy, coaches can instill in their players the importance of fair play and graciousness in victory and defeat. Leading by example is key. Coaches who demonstrate sportsmanship in their own actions and interactions serve as powerful role models for their players. Whether it's congratulating opponents, showing empathy towards teammates, or accepting officiating decisions with grace, coaches set the standard for how sportsmanship should be practiced. Moreover, coaches can incorporate sportsmanship into their coaching philosophy and practice sessions. Encouraging teamwork, cooperation, and mutual support among players helps foster a culture where everyone feels valued and respected. Additionally, using teachable moments during games and practices to reinforce positive behaviors and address lapses in sportsmanship can be effective in shaping player attitudes. Ultimately, coaches have the opportunity to not only develop athletes but also cultivate individuals who exemplify the values of sportsmanship both on and off the field. By prioritizing character development alongside skill development, coaches can empower their players to become not just better athletes, but better people as well. Dr. Steve Graef provides some great insights in this episode of Ask Dr. Steve.

23 ABR. 2024 · Dr. Steve Graef's insights into differentiating between anxiety, sports pressure, and typical adolescent behavior in student-athletes can be invaluable for parents. Here's a summary of the guidelines he may provide: - Open Communication: Encourage parents to establish open lines of communication with their student-athletes at all stages of their sporting journey, from Little League to high school. This involves creating an environment where the athlete feels comfortable expressing their thoughts and feelings about the game and their mental state. - Setting Boundaries: Help parents set boundaries with their athletes regarding discussing the game and how the athlete is feeling. While it's essential to discuss performance and emotions related to sports, it's also crucial to establish limits to prevent overwhelming the athlete or making them feel pressured. - Recognizing Signs of Struggle: Educate parents about the signs that their child/athlete may be struggling with their mental health. These signs can include changes in behavior, mood swings, decreased performance, withdrawal from activities, or expressing feelings of stress and anxiety. - Understanding Typical Adolescent Behavior: Provide parents with information on typical adolescent behavior to help them differentiate between normal developmental challenges and potential mental health issues. This understanding can assist parents in identifying when their child's behavior deviates from what is considered typical for their age group. Overall, Dr. Steve Graef's guidelines aim to empower parents to support their student-athletes effectively, understand their experiences, and navigate the complexities of mental health and sports participation. By fostering open communication, setting boundaries, and recognizing signs of struggle, parents can play a crucial role in promoting their child's well-being both on and off the field.

16 ABR. 2024 · The pressure on athletes can be immense, and it's crucial to address not just their physical well-being but also their mental health. Providing tips on balancing different aspects of life and recognizing when to seek help can make a significant difference in athletes' overall well-being. It's encouraging to see efforts being made to support athletes in all aspects of their lives. 

9 ABR. 2024 · Coaches today are being asked to do more than worrying about the X's and O's of their sport these days. One area that coaches are paying more attention to is an athlete's mental health. Today, coaches may monitor the unprecedented scrunity and pressure athletes face playing sports. Some of this pressure is due to social media. What warning signs should a coach be looking for to see if an athlete is struggling with their mental health. In today's episode of "Ask Dr Steve," Dr. Steve Graef examines this topic and provides insights for coaches. Dr. Steve makes sure to emphasize that coaches are not asked to be therapist but rather to pay attention and notice for changes in athletes behaviors and if this could be do to mental health challenges. It's important for coaches to create a supportive environment where athletes feel comfortable discussing their mental health concerns. Coaches can provide resources such as access to counseling services, mental health education materials, or referrals to mental health professionals when needed. By being attentive to warning signs and offering support, coaches can play a crucial role in promoting the overall well-being of their athletes. If you are a coach, this is a terrific episode.