Dr. Lydia Bell is an Associate Director of Research for Academic Performance at the NCAA. Lydia discusses research demonstrating the adverse implications of Covid-19 on student-athlete mental health and well-being. She indicates that relative to pre-pandemic levels, student-athletes are showing elevated levels of depression, anxiety, and hopelessness. She also suggests that rates of mental health concerns appear higher among Latino and African American athletes than their Caucasian peers, among athletes whose families are experiencing economic distress as a result of the pandemic, and among varsity seniors.   Dr. Bell also highlights NCAA initiatives and research focused on athlete retention, political activism, and racial justice. Dr. Bell discusses how data informs policy discussions and NCAA decisions. For further assistance dealing with the challenges of injury or for performance enhancement consulting visit: podlogconsulting.com