The pressure game

We all experience anxiety and the pressures  that life throws at us, often times it spills over into the lives of others. This translates to the growing issue of anxiety in youth sports, exploring how kids often find themselves caught in the crossfire between the high expectations of parents and the pressures from coaches. When the focus shifts from the child's well-being to external goals—like winning or status—young athletes are left to navigate the emotional and mental toll. We discuss the impact this has on their performance, self-esteem, and overall enjoyment of the game. As we unpack the complexities of this issue, we also highlight how these pressures reflect broader societal trends, drawing connections to how anxiety affects the general public in various areas of life. Whether on the field or in everyday situations, the conversation on mental health is more important than ever.