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Mental Health in Athletes

By Daniel Clearfield, DO, MS, FAOASM | May 11, 2023 | General Sports Medicine, Teaching, OMM / Osteopathy | Tagged: osteopathic principles, mental health, body mind spirit, world mental health month | 0 Comments

It is World Mental Health Month!

Body, MIND, & Spirit: these three critical things constitute the first principle of Osteopathic Principles & Practice (OPP). While many people come to us for their physical ailments, it is always important for us to consider the mind and spirit when ensuring an athlete is safely returning to their activity.

For World Mental Health Month we would like to call special attention to the mental well-being of our athletes and patients.

Athletes are often seen as strong, resilient, and mentally tough individuals who can overcome any obstacle that comes their way. However, the reality is that even athletes can struggle with mental health issues just like anyone else. In fact, the pressure and demands of being an athlete can sometimes exacerbate mental health issues. In this blog, we will explore mental health in athletes and discuss the importance of addressing it.

The Pressure of Being an Athlete

Athletes face a unique set of challenges that can take a toll on their mental health. These challenges include:

• Performance Expectations: Athletes are often expected to perform at a high level consistently. The pressure to win and be the best can be overwhelming and lead to anxiety and stress.
• Injuries: Injuries are common in sports, and they can be devastating to athletes. An injury can sideline an athlete for an extended period, leading to feelings of isolation and depression.
• Transitions: Athletes often experience significant life transitions, such as retirement, that can be difficult to navigate. Retirement can be especially challenging as athletes may struggle to find a new sense of purpose and identity.
• Media Scrutiny: Athletes are in the public eye and subject to media scrutiny, which can be stressful and impact their mental health.

Mental Health Issues in Athletes

The pressure and demands of being an athlete can lead to a variety of mental health issues, including:

• Anxiety: Athletes may experience anxiety related to performance expectations, injuries, or transitions.
• Depression: Athletes may experience depression due to injury, retirement, or other life stressors.
• Eating Disorders: Athletes, especially those in sports that require a specific body type, may develop eating disorders as a way to control their weight.
• Substance Abuse: Athletes may turn to drugs or alcohol to cope with the pressure and demands of their sport.

Addressing Mental Health in Athletes

It is essential to address mental health issues in athletes to ensure their well-being and to help them perform at their best. Here are some ways to address mental health in athletes:

• Normalize Mental Health: Athletes need to know that mental health issues are common and that seeking help is a sign of strength.
• Education and Training: Coaches, trainers, and sports organizations should receive education and training on mental health issues to better identify and support athletes who may be struggling.
• Access to Mental Health Services: Athletes should have access to mental health services, including counseling, therapy, and support groups.
• Support Networks: Athletes should have a support network that includes family, friends, coaches, and teammates who can offer support and encouragement.
• Wellness Programs: Sports organizations should implement wellness programs that promote mental health and well-being.

In conclusion, athletes face unique challenges that can impact their mental health. It is essential to address mental health issues in athletes to ensure their well-being and to help them perform at their best. By normalizing mental health, providing education and training, and offering access to mental health services, we can support athletes in their mental health journey.

At Motion is Medicine we understand the importance of mental health, and I work with my athletes and patients on ensuring they have recovered physically, mentally, and spiritually. We also work as a health team with mental health professionals in our area, including: psychiatrists, psychologists, counselors, social workers, therapists, primary care physicians and clergy.