Facilitate a conversation -- start talking

Watch to see how Russell initiated a conversation and directed Andrew to seek assistance.
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Facilitate a conversation -- start talking

Starting a conversation about mental health can be awkward.

Russell demonstrated a respectful and concerned approach by:

• speaking to Andrew in private
• listening to Andrew’s point of view
• telling Andrew he noticed changes in his behavior
• using examples of other student-athletes who have mental health issues
• encouraging Andrew to seek help

Evaluate and Revise and revisit

Even if things are a little awkward and the discussion is not immediately successful, your actions may still make a difference. The person you speak to about mental health may choose to act at a later stage or continue the conversation with others. You can also evaluate and learn from the experience so that you can revise and revisit the topic at a later time.

Russell: Hi, Andrew.
Andrew: Hey.
Russell: I mean, you look kind of down today, and you were really tired last week. Are you feeling okay?
Andrew: I don't know. I guess I'm not totally on top of things.
Russell: You aren't depressed, are you?
Andrew: Depressed? I am just not that great, I'm not depressed.
Russell: You know when the team was in a slump last year, a lot of the guys went to the counseling center, and they said it really helped.
Andrew: I don't know.
Russell: Well it helped them last year, so I am thinking that it could help you this year again.
Andrew: I don't know.
Russell: Alright, how about I take you the first time? We'll go on our week off.
Andrew: Alright, sounds good.
Russell: Alright, let's get this workout done.

Russell and Andrew - Transcript