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Mental health challenges, just like physical health challenges, affect everyone.
Mental health problems are more common than heart disease, lung disease and cancer combined. And they’re often underdiagnosed, mismanaged, or worse, ignored.
When it comes to athletes, there’s pressure to be strong, push through pain, pull through for their teams and to win. Mental health often takes a back seat.
Depression and anxiety are common disorders, yet the stigma about mental health prevents people from talking about it or seeking help.
In Episode 73, Dr. G and his guest, Stephanie Aylward, PhD, discuss why mental health is important for athletes (and everyone) and what athletes can do to stay healthy.
Guest
Myths vs. Facts
“A well-balanced state of mind is extremely important for athletes who seek to achieve high performance and development.” - Fact
A balance of good physical and mental health will make you a better competitor or athlete.
“When athletes are treated for physical injuries, doctors may focus on remediating the physical symptoms but sometimes miss the mind-body dualism.” - Fact
Providers must prioritize mental health and take time to administer anxiety or depression screenings to athletes.
“Athletes exercise all the time, and exercise is good for your mental health, so athletes shouldn’t have any problems with mental illness.” - Myth
Everyone is looking for an easy fix, but mental and emotional well-being is complicated. Exercise alone does not provide enough support for our complex needs.
“Collegiate athletes are less likely to seek treatment for their mental health problems than other young adults.” Fact
Researchers have found that U.S. collegiate athletes are willing to use mental health services, but gender, perceived stigma, peer norms for athletes and coaches, and availability influenced their decisions.
“After investing so much time and energy into their specialization, athletes could feel guilty for having poor mental health. They could blame themselves and fear disappointing others by dealing with mental health issues.” - Fact
Athletes and their families put a lot of focus, resources and sacrifice into a goal. It’s understandable that an athlete might feel guilty if they don’t reach their goal or are sidelined for mental health treatment.
“Most athletes’ stressors are related to their sport.” - Depends
Stress can come in many forms for athletes — sports competition, injuries, organizational stress as well as personal stress and wellness.
“It’s essential to open the door for athletes to address their mental health issues and share them with others if they feel comfortable.” - Fact
Openness and discussion are essential to reducing the stigma of mental health.
“Coaches could play an important role in encouraging and providing support for athletes to seek mental health services when needed.” - Fact
Coaches can have a big impact on athletes by promoting balance and mental health and encouraging support systems.
Listener healthy OH-YEAH!
Question: What are some of “the little things” that brighten your day? “Different colored gel pens. They pair nicely with rainbow Post-its.” – W.R.M.
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