6 Ways to Protect Your Mental Health as a Professional Cheerleader
As a professional cheerleader, you may have felt extreme pressure while dancing in front of thousands of people in the arena and on national television. Such experience, along with other things like deadlines at work and family responsibilities, may take a toll on your mental health, resulting in feelings of doubt and anxiety.
Studies show that cheerleaders of various ages experience body surveillance pressure, which can cause them to develop body dysmorphia, low-self esteem, and eating disorders. Since anyone is prone to experiencing these challenges, protecting your mental health while living your pro cheer life is essential.
Here are some ways to protect your mental health from external pressures in your career and life.
1. Talk about your feelings.
If you don't feel emotionally well, talk to someone you trust. It can be a health professional, your family, close friends, or one of your pro cheer sisters. Let your frustrations out, and don't hold back. It’s okay to cry. Just be with the people who support you and won’t judge you in any way.
If you are having a good day, still reach out to them! You’ll be able to feel love from your support system and their constant affirmations can boost your confidence levels.
2. Maintain healthy habits.
Maintaining a healthy habit will make you physically healthy, reduce stress and prevent you from getting other health problems. Stick to consistent meal times. Eat well and regularly exercise. Get enough sleep, especially when game day is near.
Read more: How to Make Self-Care a Priority in Your Pro Cheer Life
3. Connect with your feelings.
Take your time to reflect on your inner self. When you feel stressed, try to understand where it's coming from. Recognize that what you feel is normal. If you're triggered by external pressures, learn to take a pause and calm your mind. Try to take deep breaths and realign your emotions. Then, process your feelings depending on what you feel is correct and useful.
4. Do everything in moderation.
You can lower your anxieties by increasing your discipline. This can mean getting enough sleep and limiting your screen time. Furthermore, limit your caffeine and alcohol consumption. Finding a balance in your lifestyle allows you to have a more peaceful mindset.
5. Practice self-care.
Sometimes you get too focused on your rehearsals that you forget your own health. Include a time for yourself to rest and recharge. You can explore different strategies like yoga, art, or exercise. Eating healthy food is also part of self-care.
Read more: 6 Ways to Emotionally Declutter and Have Better Focus to Achieve Your Pro Cheer Goals
6. Remember your self-worth.
Some people may discourage you by giving negative comments on your image or dance routine, but know that you became a professional cheerleader because you are capable and deserving. So be kind to yourself and recognize that many people feel the same. Know which criticisms are for your own gain and improvement, and filter out the negativity.
Conclusion
You may have been keeping your physical body in shape, but as a pro cheerleader, you must also take care of your mental health. Make a plan to manage your emotions appropriately and maintain a routine to avoid getting easily distracted. Lastly, if your anxiety is causing you a large amount of discomfort and if it's interfering with your ability to function normally, don’t hesitate to seek support from mental health experts.
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