By Dr. Andrea Durand, DBH, LCSW
Rates of anxiety, depression, and social isolation among youth continue to climb, yet one accessible and highly effective intervention consistently delivers strong mental health benefits: Participation in team sports. Beyond improving physical fitness, team athletics help young people develop resilience, confidence, and connection—all core components of psychological wellbeing.
Recent research shows that children and adolescents involved in team sports experience fewer symptoms of depression and anxiety, stronger self-esteem, and better emotional regulation than peers who don’t participate. These effects extend into adulthood, where former teamsport athletes show lower levels of stress and improved overall life satisfaction.
Connection & Belonging
Human connection is essential for mental health, and team sports create a built-in community where youth feel seen, included, and valued. Teammates become social anchors who offer support during the ups and downs of adolescence. This can be especially important for neurodivergent or twice-exceptional youth, who often thrive in environments that emphasize cooperation over competition.
Emotional Growth Through Challenge
Team sports provide structured opportunities for young people to experience frustration, conflict, and perseverance in a healthy way. Learning to win with humility and lose with resilience builds emotional maturity. These skills carry over into school, friendships, and family life.
Strengthening Confidence & Purpose
A strong sense of role and contribution helps kids build self-worth. Whether a child is a starter, a substitute, or the one who brings energy and support to the team, their participation matters. Feeling needed and celebrated by peers reinforces positive identity development.
As I explain to families I work with, “I see the proof of the research in my practice—youth who are involved in sports are typically physically and mentally healthier and have better treatment outcomes.”
A Community Opportunity on the Horizon
Local accessibility plays a major role in whether kids can participate in team sports at all. That’s why I am particularly excited about the upcoming opening of the Fire ’N’ Ice Sports Arena. This facility will bring new opportunities for our community to engage in youth sports, offering more families the chance to benefit from the teamwork, structure, and social connection that support strong mental health. Increased access means more children can participate consistently— and consistency is what transforms sports from an activity into a protective factor.
Keeping Sports Supportive
As with any therapeutic tool, the experience should remain enjoyable and balanced. Encouraging exploration, avoiding excessive pressure, and prioritizing fun help children develop a lifelong love of movement and community.
Team sports aren’t just games; they are powerful, evidence-supported pathways to emotional wellness. With growing resources in our community, more youth will have the opportunity to build resilience, connection, and confidence through play.
SOURCES Psychology Today, Cleveland Clinic, The Nation’s Health, Anxiety.org
Dr. Andrea Durand, DBH, LCSW, is the founder of Durand Healing and Wellness Center. She specializes in complex trauma, neurodivergence, and mental health support for gifted and twice-exceptional youth.
