Mental Health: Can and Should CrossFit Coaches Play a Role?
In recent months, we have told stories about CrossFit enthusiasts, people like Armando Perez and Samantha Thaxton, and how they used CrossFit to help them to improve their mental health.
Similarly, we have told stories about CrossFit’s ability to help people overcome substance abuse and addiction, and we have reported on scientific research that suggests improved physical strength can decrease anxiety.
The bottom line is we have ample evidence that fitness, and especially that joining a CrossFit community, is a powerful tool for improving mental health.
That being said, recent events also prove that when it comes to mental health, it’s irresponsible to think CrossFit is the be-all-end-all.
In November 2021, CrossFit CEO Eric Roza, a man dedicated to his physical fitness, bravely sent an email to all CrossFit employees and affiliate owners revealing he was undergoing treatment for depression. And more recently, in December, the Morning Chalk Up learned about a long-time affiliate owner who tragically took his own life.
This content is available exclusively to Members
Become an member and start enjoying full access to all our community and sports content, and an ad-free experience.
- Exclusive content
- Ad-Free web/app experience
- Comments on articles
- Exclusive 15% WIT discount
- $1 per month for the first 4 months, $8 each month after
- Exclusive content
- Ad-Free web/app experience
- Comments on articles
- Exclusive private Facebook Group
- Regular coffee breaks hang outs
- Exclusive 15% WIT discount
billed annually
Already a member? Log In.
Get the Newsletter
For a daily digest of all things CrossFit. Community, Competitions, Athletes, Tips, Recipes, Deals and more.
"*" indicates required fields
