Anya Kawlekar, a high school student from Robbinsville, New Jersey, is making a notable impact on mental health awareness among young athletes through her non-profit organization, MHAYA (Mental Health Awareness in Young Athletes). Founded in 2022 when Anya was just 15, MHAYA addresses mental health challenges often overlooked in the athletic world.
As an accomplished squash player who has competed in prestigious events like the Junior US Open Squash Championship, US Junior Championships (JCT), and Junior Gold Championship, Anya has firsthand experience with the pressures of competition. The intense stress and expectations affected her performance, focus, and decision-making both on and off the court. This personal journey inspired her to research mental health issues affecting young athletes and to create MHAYA to raise awareness and provide support.
In Anya’s words, “Children are taught how to handle victories, but very few actually know how to handle defeats. Schools and, often, parents don’t address this. Most young athletes lose interest and abandon their sports journey because they can’t handle the mental pressure from parents and peers.”
Research shows that the number of athletes dealing with mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and isolation has nearly doubled in just two years, rising from 17% to 35%. Anya’s experiences as a nationally ranked athlete underscored for her how essential mental fitness is for success, which fueled her interest in psychology and her commitment to advocacy.
MHAYA’s mission is straightforward yet crucial: to spread awareness and advocate for mental well-being among young athletes. Anya raises awareness through social media, podcasts, presentations at public library events, community fairs, fundraising walks, and partnerships. MHAYA is breaking down the stigma around mental health struggles in sports by highlighting the challenges athletes face both on and off the field.
A significant milestone for MHAYA was its recent collaboration with the National Youth Leadership Council (NYLC) in St. Paul, Minnesota. In April and May 2024, MHAYA partnered with NYLC following a feature at the National Service-Learning Conference, which helped to integrate mental health initiatives into NYLC’s programs and expand MHAYA’s message. MHAYA was also spotlighted on NYLC’s website, marking a major step forward.
Additionally, Anya was invited to speak on NYLC’s podcast, The Power of Young People, where she shared her story, highlighted MHAYA’s goals, and shed light on the mental health challenges young athletes face.
As MHAYA continues to grow, Anya is constantly exploring new opportunities for collaboration and outreach. Through public speaking, social media, and partnerships with leading organizations, MHAYA is becoming a lasting voice in the mental health advocacy space for young athletes.
Anya’s journey demonstrates the power of youth leadership and the incredible difference one individual can make in championing vital causes. At just 17, Anya has created a platform that not only fosters open conversations about mental health but also provides essential resources and support for athletes in need. With a bright future ahead, MHAYA continues its mission to promote the mental well-being of young athletes everywhere.
To learn more, visit mhayaorg.com or follow @mhayaorg on social media.
