Coach Katie's Corner
By Katie Scripoch
By Katie Scripoch
Former Los Angeles Dodgers player, Andrew Toles, has once again been signed, but not to play. Toles’ last time playing for the Dodgers was in 2018, but they have continued to sign him for the mental health care benefits.
Toles has been diagnosed with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, and without the health care benefits, he could be considered a danger to himself or others if in the midst of a schizophrenic break or manic episode.
I am extremely happy that a professional team takes mental health seriously, because there are so many programs and coaches that treat their athletes like machines until they break down.
As a student athlete that lives with multiple mental illnesses, I know how difficult it can be to speak up when struggling because there are a number of things that are being balanced at once. From staying on top of school work and maintaining good grades, to being at every practice and every game, it can be difficult to find time in the day to focus on your wellbeing.
If any athlete feels like they are struggling, I encourage you to take time for yourself because your mental health is just as important as your physical health.
Coaches need to have more awareness when it comes to the stress that being an athlete brings, nonetheless a student athlete.
Toles has been diagnosed with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, and without the health care benefits, he could be considered a danger to himself or others if in the midst of a schizophrenic break or manic episode.
I am extremely happy that a professional team takes mental health seriously, because there are so many programs and coaches that treat their athletes like machines until they break down.
As a student athlete that lives with multiple mental illnesses, I know how difficult it can be to speak up when struggling because there are a number of things that are being balanced at once. From staying on top of school work and maintaining good grades, to being at every practice and every game, it can be difficult to find time in the day to focus on your wellbeing.
If any athlete feels like they are struggling, I encourage you to take time for yourself because your mental health is just as important as your physical health.
Coaches need to have more awareness when it comes to the stress that being an athlete brings, nonetheless a student athlete.