How to Communicate with Your Coach About Mental Struggles
Let’s be real—talking to your coach about mental struggles can feel awkward or even intimidating. You might worry about what they’ll think, whether they’ll take you seriously, or if it’ll affect your place on the team.
But here’s the truth: Your coach wants you to perform at your best—and that includes your mental game, not just your physical skills.
If you’re struggling with confidence, nerves, pressure, or motivation, talking to your coach can actually help. The key is knowing how to start the conversation and what to say. Here’s how to do it the right way.
1. Remember: Your Coach Is There to Help 🏆
First things first—your coach isn’t just there to teach skills and run drills. Their job is to help you improve, stay motivated, and enjoy the sport.
Coaches can’t read minds. If you’re struggling with something mentally, they might not even realise it unless you tell them.
You’re not “weak” or “making excuses” for bringing up mental struggles. In fact, the best athletes in the world talk to their coaches about their mindset all the time.
2. Choose the Right Time & Place ⏳
Catching your coach when they’re rushing between drills or talking to teammates isn’t the best move.
📌 Good times to talk:
✔ After practice when things are calmer
✔ Before training starts if they have a free moment
✔ If they’re busy, ask: “Hey coach, could we chat after practice?”
A one-on-one chat is best so you can be honest without distractions.
3. Be Honest, But Keep It Simple 🗣️
You don’t need a long speech—just get straight to the point.
🔹 Example: “Coach, I’ve been struggling with confidence lately, and it’s affecting how I play. Do you have any advice?”
🔹 Example: “I’ve been feeling a lot of pressure, and it’s making me overthink everything. Can we talk about how to handle it?”
🔹 Example: “I’ve been losing focus in games, and I’m not sure why. Can we figure out how to fix it?”
Coaches respect honesty and will appreciate that you’re trying to improve.
4. Be Open to Their Advice (Even If It’s Not What You Expected) 💡
Your coach might not have an instant fix, but they can offer advice based on their experience.
They might:
✔ Suggest mental exercises (like visualization or breathing techniques)
✔ Adjust your training plan to help with focus and confidence
✔ Encourage you to talk to a sports psychologist for extra support
Even if their first suggestion isn’t what you were expecting, stay open to their guidance—they’re there to help you succeed.
5. Ask for Specific Support If You Need It 🤝
If you have a clear idea of how your coach can help, let them know.
🔹 “Could I work on pressure situations in practice so I feel more confident in games?”
🔹 “Would it be okay if I took a few deep breaths before free throws without feeling rushed?”
🔹 “Can you check in with me before games to help me stay focused?”
Most coaches appreciate direct communication and will be happy to support you.
6. Don’t Be Afraid to Follow Up 🔄
If things don’t improve right away, don’t assume your coach didn’t care. Mental struggles take time and work.
✔ If you’re still struggling, check in again: “Hey coach, I tried what we talked about, but I’m still having a hard time. Do you have any other advice?”
✔ If you feel better, let them know: “Coach, that tip you gave me really helped—thanks for the support!”
Keeping communication open builds trust and helps your coach understand how to guide you better.
7. Remember: Mental Strength Is Part of the Game 🧠
Just like working on your skills and fitness, mental training is part of improving as an athlete. Struggling with nerves, confidence, or focus doesn’t make you weak—it makes you human.
The best players train their minds just like they train their bodies. Talking to your coach about it isn’t complaining—it’s part of getting better.
Want More Mental Training Tips?
If you want to build confidence, handle pressure, and sharpen your mental game, check out our courses featuring:
🎥 Videos from real athlete mentors
📄 Downloadable resources to help with mindset training
❓ Interactive quizzes to test and improve your mental skills