Lauren Aldrich has made a career out of making split-second decisions under pressure. A former Division I soccer player, Lauren is now a professional referee working across the NWSL, USL Super League, USL Championship, USL League One, and MLS NEXT Pro. But what happens mentally after the whistle blows? In our latest Q&A, Lauren takes us inside the often overlooked mental health experience of referees. She discusses the pressure of making difficult calls, the importance of therapy and peer support, and learning not to attach her worth as a person to her performance on the field. She also shares why the mental health conversation in officiating still has room to grow, and why taking care of your mind is just as important as taking care of your body.💚 Read Lauren’s full Q&A at the link in our bio.🔗 📸 Photography: Shawn Perla #mentalhealth #referee #athletementalhealth