Special Olympics is proud to partner with MTV and hundreds of other organizations on today's first-ever Mental Health Action Day. Special Olympics Strong Minds, an Inclusive Health program, aims to teach athletes coping strategies and provides resources to increase relaxation and stress management skills. 

Check out some of our tips and resources below, and remember: taking care of your emotional well-being is just as important as your physical health.

In addition to a strong body, Special Olympics emphasizes the importance of caring for your emotional health and well-being for athletes to compete at their best.

Use Strong Minds strategies like deep breathing, stretching, or yoga. Yoga is important to Special Olympics athletes around the world! It’s a great way to relax before an important competition or focus before a practice. 

Exercise at least 30 minutes a day five times a week. Special Olympics School of Strength is a great place to start to help you stay fit and reach your athletic goals.

Use deep breathing as a tool anytime and anywhere to help ourselves feel better when we are nervous or stressed

Take time to be inspired by and learn from others — like one of our heroes, Chris Nikic, a Special Olympics athlete and the first person with Down syndrome to complete an IRONMAN triathlon!