#USA #Acadia Healthcare #Hendersonville #Jason Foundation #AFCA

Coaching Minds Changing Lives

In a significant move to address mental health challenges among student-athletes, the Jason Foundation (JFI), Acadia Healthcare, and the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) have launched an initiative named "Coaching Minds Changing Lives" (CMCL). This program is designed to provide coaches and athletic staff across the nation with vital resources to assist young athletes battling mental health or substance abuse issues.

Navigating the pressures of academia and athletics can be daunting, and often the first line of support for many student-athletes is their coach. Coaches frequently find themselves as trusted confidants during tough times, whether students are coping with personal loss, academic stress, or emotional turmoil. However, while some institutions have established mental health programs, many coaches feel unprepared to handle these sensitive situations. CMCL aims to fill this gap by offering specialized guidance and support.

Through CMCL, coaches now have access to a dedicated National Resource Line, allowing them to consult with clinical advisors who can provide tailored insights and recommendations based on individual circumstances. This initiative empowers coaches to discuss their concerns and clarify next steps, ensuring that they always have support when needed.

Clark Flatt, President of the Jason Foundation, expressed pride in the collaboration, stating, “By joining forces with Acadia Healthcare and the AFCA, we can empower coaches across the nation to better support student-athletes struggling with mental health issues.” Craig Bohl, Executive Director of the AFCA, emphasized the role of coaches as mentors and first responders, indicating that CMCL will ensure they won’t have to face these difficult moments alone.

Mental health struggles can be particularly challenging for younger individuals who might hesitate to reach out for help due to stigma or fear of being misunderstood. Dr. Stephanie Eken, Chief Medical Officer of Acadia Healthcare, noted that this resource is designed to meet young athletes where they are, facilitating coaches' ability to provide support to those who might otherwise feel isolated.

It’s crucial to note that CMCL is not a crisis hotline and is not intended to replace individual or group counseling or emergency services. Instead, it acts as a supplementary resource, guiding coaches towards appropriate mental health and addiction services when the need arises.

About the Organizations

The Jason Foundation is dedicated to tackling youth and young adult suicide, viewing it as a "Silent Epidemic." Through educational programs, the foundation aims to inform young people, parents, and communities about the importance of mental health. Notably, JFI ensures that its resources are free for schools and communities.

Founded in 1922, the American Football Coaches Association comprises over 11,000 coaches globally, committed to maintaining high standards in football and coaching. The organization serves as a platform for ongoing discussions related to football and coaching practices.

Acadia Healthcare stands as a leading provider of behavioral healthcare across the U.S., operating a network of hospitals and treatment facilities to serve the mental health needs of patients. As of mid-2025, Acadia supports a workforce of approximately 25,000 employees and aims to deliver comprehensive behavioral healthcare to a diverse patient population.

In conclusion, the launch of CMCL reflects a proactive step toward safeguarding the mental health of student-athletes through enhanced coach training and resources. This initiative not only seeks to create supportive environments within sports but also aims to foster open dialogues about mental health in youth athletics, ensuring that every student-athlete has access to the help they may need.