Leadership's Influence on Mental Health: A YEDA Experience

Last month, YEDA hosted an impactful Mental Health & Leadership Workshop for the youth in our programs. This experience highlighted a crucial lesson: leadership starts from within.

The workshop was led by mental health and wellness advocate Kris Lacy. Participants received more than just tools; they gained insight and confidence. They learned how their mindset shapes their life path. For many, it was their first opportunity to discuss mental health openly.

For YEDA, hosting events like this is essential. They are not optional.

To encourage our youth to excel as athletes and students, we must support them as individuals. This support means prioritizing their emotional wellbeing and leadership development alongside their athletic skills.

The Power of Perspective: What the Workshop Covered

The day was filled with hands-on learning. One of the first activities was a bubble map, where students illustrated areas of their lives where they hold influence: family, friends, teammates, school, and social media.

This exercise was eye-opening. It helped students realize that leadership isn't solely about authority. It's about how they conduct themselves in everyday situations.

Kris led a session that focused on mindset. The youth explored how their perspective on challenges affects their responses. They distinguished between reacting and responding, learned to own their stories, and recognized that true leaders lead by example—not just through words, but also through actions.

What We Saw: Real Impact in Real Time

What stood out most was not just the content, but the transformation we witnessed. We observed students transition from reserved to reflective, and from distracted to focused.

By day’s end, many shared personal stories of how the workshop influenced their thoughts. Some expressed that they had never before been in a setting where mental health was discussed so freely. Others left with a revitalized sense of purpose. One participant stated, “I didn’t know I had that much influence.”

For a single-day event, the long-term impact was undeniable.

Why It Matters: The Research Behind Mental Health & Leadership Training for Youth

Statistics from the CDC show that 42% of high school students reported feeling persistently sad or hopeless in 2021. This marks a 50% increase over the past decade. Young Black males face even greater challenges, as the stigma around mental health discussions can lead to feelings of isolation.

Programs like ours that focus on leadership training and mentorship can make a significant difference.

Research from the National Mentoring Resource Center indicates that youth engaged in structured mentoring and leadership programs often exhibit higher self-esteem, improved behavior in school, and stronger relationships. They are also less likely to participate in risky behaviors.

It's not only about preventing harm. It's also about creating pathways.

When young people view themselves as leaders, they tend to make better choices. Understanding that leadership includes caring for their mental health fosters resilience. When they are seen, heard, and supported, they rise.

The YEDA Difference: Mind, Body, Spirit

YEDA's mission goes beyond sports. We leverage athletics to connect with youth and guide them toward greater achievements.

This includes mentorship, mental health support, fitness education, and workshops that provide students with essential leadership tools. Participation in these events is mandatory for our league athletes. To cultivate strong, well-rounded individuals, we must invest in their complete potential.

We’re thrilled to announce that this will not be the last workshop of its kind. The event highlighted the need for more initiatives like this.

Next Steps: Continuing the Journey

Now, more than ever, it is crucial to continue fostering such workshops. They serve as vital opportunities for youth development. We need to keep the momentum going.

The feedback from participants encourages us to enhance our programs. We want to ensure every young leader has access to resources for personal growth and mental wellness.

Watch the Recap: What Leadership Looks Like in Action

We invite you to watch the recap video above. Witness the transformations that took place during the workshop.

You will hear firsthand accounts from the youth who participated, leaned in, and emerged with a newfound perspective.

Get Involved: Be Part of the Change

We’re just getting started! There are numerous ways for you to contribute to this movement.

👉 Check out our upcoming programs and events to discover how to involve your child, whether through mentorship, education, fitness, or community initiatives.

👉 Interested in volunteering? Click here to express your interest in supporting our youth as a Big Brother or Big Sister, basketball coach, trainer, or in any role that helps nurture future leaders in our community.

Workshops like this remind us that making a difference doesn’t require a lifetime. It takes one intentional day, one caring adult, and one open conversation. We are proud to have partnered with Kris Lacy to create this valuable space and look forward to future initiatives.

At YEDA, we don't just cultivate athletes. We are building leaders.