Neftaly Developing mental health screening tools for athletic programs

Neftaly: Implementing Evidence-Based Mental Health Screening in Athletics

1. Athlete Psychological Strain Questionnaire (APSQ)

Developed by Dr. Simon Rice and colleagues, the APSQ is a 10-item self-report tool designed to assess psychological strain in athletes. It evaluates three key domains: self-regulation, performance, and external coping. Validated across diverse athlete populations, including male and female elite athletes, the APSQ serves as an effective initial screening instrument for identifying athletes at risk of mental health issues. Human Kinetics Journals+8Simon Rice PhD+8PMC+8

2. Sport Mental Health Assessment Tool 1 (SMHAT-1)

The SMHAT-1 is a standardized assessment tool developed by the International Olympic Committee to identify elite athletes at risk for mental health symptoms and disorders. It includes the APSQ as an initial triage tool, followed by more comprehensive assessments conducted by licensed health professionals. The SMHAT-1 aims to facilitate early identification and timely referrals for athletes in need of support. The Guardian+12ISSF+12British Journal of Sports Medicine+12MDPI

3. CCAPS-Screen

The Counseling Center Assessment of Psychological Symptoms (CCAPS) is a widely used screening instrument in college settings. The CCAPS-Screen is a 36-item version that assesses eight common areas of distress experienced by college students and varsity athletes. It has been implemented across numerous college counseling centers and is recommended by the NCAA for annual mental health screenings of student-athletes. CCMH Penn State+2PMC+2

4. Integration into Athletic Programs

To effectively implement these screening tools, Neftaly can:

• Adopt Validated Instruments: Utilize tools like the APSQ and SMHAT-1 to assess mental health risks among athletes.
• Train Staff: Educate coaches and athletic trainers on recognizing signs of mental health issues and administering screenings.
• Ensure Confidentiality: Maintain athlete privacy and confidentiality throughout the screening process.PROmotion Health
• Provide Resources: Offer access to mental health professionals and support services for athletes identified as at risk.
• Monitor and Evaluate: Regularly assess the effectiveness of screening tools and make necessary adjustments.