Are Substances the Answer? Understanding Substance Use Among Student-Athletes
By Denise Lopez Denise is a second-year graduate student at National University, pursuing a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy and Clinical Counseling. Outside of counseling, she is also deeply passionate about coaching volleyball. Through her coaching experience, Denise developed a strong awareness of the mental health challenges faced by athletes. She is particularly interested in using mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approaches to address issues such as body dysmorphia, eating disorders, performance anxiety, and navigating difficult life transitions in athletes. As a former volleyball player, I can recall the challenges of balancing demanding athletic schedules, rigorous academic expectations, and the pressures of social life. College was an exciting time, but as a student-athlete, it could get very overwhelming. Balancing demanding athletic schedules, academics, social lives, and personal goals can feel ...