Losing a season due to injury, loosing a teammate who moves away, losing a loved one, coach, or teammate who tragically passes away...the list is endless and the topic can feel overwhelming. How can coaches help the people in their program navigate loss without falling victim to comparison. How can coaches help athletes process tragedy when they feel broken and confused themselves?

Navigating the stormy seas of grief and loss can seem like an impossible journey, especially within the competitive world of athletics. Join me as I welcome Liz Howard, a licensed mental health counselor who brings a wealth of knowledge from both personal and professional encounters with grief. We explore how the complexities of grief can affect athletic performance, and the critical role of coaches in guiding athletes through such emotional turmoil. Liz sheds light on the essential act of acknowledging and expressing feelings, and the power it has in transforming our experiences with loss.

Our conversation deepens as we delve into the significance of empathy during these challenging times. Liz illustrates the immense power of human connection in helping athletes confront and process their emotions. We highlight the importance of creating safe spaces and fostering supportive relationships that can aid individuals through these trying experiences. Moreover, Liz cautions against the constant urge to fix or solve the situation, stressing the need to provide space for processing feelings.

In the latter part of our discussion, we unfold the importance of self-care among coaches. We explore how our understanding of the science behind emotions can be used to build meaningful connections with athletes. Liz offers a treasure trove of resources to deepen our comprehension of how emotions impact us and how to navigate them effectively. This episode is a profound exploration of grief, emotions, and the power of understanding in fostering resilience. Don't miss this insightful journey with Liz Howard, a beacon of wisdom in the realms of mental health.

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