Sports, today, are more emotional than ever before, and at the same time, young people are struggling emotionally, more than ever before.

This, according to Dr. Jarrod Spencer, founder and president of Mind of the Athlete, is the reason for his sports psychology company located in Bethlehem. For Spencer and his staff, however, Mind of the Athlete is more than a company; it is a mission and a ministry.

Spencer says that, while the stereotypical sports culture is one of “Suck it up,” research shows how badly kids are struggling when mental health is minimized, and none are immune to depression and anxiety. In fact, one out of three college students have difficulty functioning, and nearly 50% suffer from anxiety.

“We really want to help,” Spencer said. “We want to serve.”

Dr. Megan Cannon and Dr. Julie Amato, two Mind of the Athlete staff members, are the first female sports psychologists in the region.

“I’m excited about the opportunity to have an impact on where I’m from,” said Cannon, a graduate of Allentown Central Catholic High School and former swimmer, softball player and dancer.

Cannon recently spoke with seventh and eighth graders from St. John Vianney Regional School in Allentown.

“They were really engaged. I taught them how the mind works and the hurdles that arise from our per-conscious mind,” said Cannon. “There’s enough video and fun things throughout. It’s all in the way it’s delivered. We don’t really sugarcoat stuff.”

Mind of the Athlete is currently working with five high schools in the area, including Northampton High School, and another 20 high schools are interested in what Mind of the Athlete has to offer them. Spencer and his team were planning on meeting with administrators at both Dieruff and William Allen High Schools this past November.

Mind of the Athlete can also be accessed from all kinds of social media, including YouTube, which contains over 500 Mind of the Athlete videos on topics such as positive self talk, dealing with toxic teammates, managing pressure, handling disappointment, the effect of the overbearing parent, and the power of prayer.

No matter what the topic, Spencer and his staff assure the viewer that what he or she is feeling is normal; that they can relate. Then, the video goes on to explain how the viewer can handle or cope with the issue.

“Our hearts are on a deep level, and we really want to help you. All of the people who work here have faith. I believe us, coming together, was God-orchestrated,” said Spencer.