ABSTRACT
This chapter provides an overview of a systems approach practitioners can use to deal productively with the task of fostering the mental health of athletes and others in sport organizations. First, it offers a rationale for how a systems approach can be a valuable investment of practitioner time, thought, and action when addressing the mental health needs of athletes, coaches, and staff through mental health programs and services. Second, the chapter discusses the nature and scope of the systems approach and its helpfulness in developing a mentally healthy sport organization. Third, it delineates the framework and constituent dimensions of the systems approach. Fourth, it sets forth the steps that comprise the systems approach. The chapter concludes with practitioner exercises.
