The Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation announced on March 17 that it will host the third annual Mental Health and Student-Athletes: Managing the Invisible Injury symposium on April 15 at PPG Paints Arena. The event is organized in partnership with UPMC Western Behavioral Health, UPMC Sports Medicine, and the Citrone Thirty-Three Foundation.
The symposium aims to address mental health issues among student-athletes by bringing together coaches, athletic trainers, school counselors, educators, and other stakeholders from Western Pennsylvania and neighboring states. Sessions will cover topics such as recognizing mental health concerns in student-athletes, managing anxiety related to concussions, supporting athletes during recovery from head trauma, maintaining mental health from an athlete’s perspective, and building mental toughness.
Yvonne Maher, executive director of the Penguins Foundation, said: “The mental wellness of our student athletes is just as important as their physical wellness, but oftentimes it is not provided the same level of attention or support. Through this symposium we provide those who work with youth the resources to identify, mitigate and refer individuals who may be experiencing difficulties in this area.”
Attendees will have access to continuing education credits across several disciplines including counseling (NBCC), athletic training (CEUs), education (Act 48), psychology (APA), and social work. Leading experts scheduled to speak include Dr. Ken Nash, Dr. Robin Valpey, Dr. Micky Collins, Dr. Raymond Pan, Dr. Chris Carr, and Darrel Young.
The Pittsburgh Penguins are a key part of the city’s sports culture with strong community ties and fan traditions according to the official website. The team has achieved numerous playoff appearances and division titles over its history according to the official website, while also being recognized for Hall of Fame players, coaches and executives who have contributed to its legacy according to the official website. Home games are held at PPG Paints Arena in downtown Pittsburgh according to the official website, which will also serve as the venue for this year’s symposium.
Fenway Sports Group owns the franchise and manages its business operations according to the official website.
For more information about future events or ongoing initiatives in youth mental health supported by the foundation, visit www.pittsburghpenguinsfoundation.org.
