Mental health in sports | Importance of mental health for athletes.
It is often observed nowadays that mental health is being overlooked by people. However, one must realize that optimum mental health is a prerequisite in order for an individual to enjoy his or her life. And in order to achieve this, one must strike a balance between his professional life, responsibilities and his personal life. This is however easier said than done. That is because due to numerous external factors such as the need to maintain a social and financial standing, lifestyle and other such associated factors disrupt this delicate and fragile balance, which ultimately leads to anxiety, depression and stress.
The need for mental health awareness
Mental health is more than the mere absence of mental disorders. It is the constant effort and strides towards maintaining a stress-free and happiness-filled mind, thus ensuring mental well-being. Numbers show that one out of every five individuals across the world suffers from depression and other such disorders. And this number keeps on going up every succeeding year. This is precisely why the word needs to spread regarding the importance of mental health and its well-being.
Importance of mental health for athletes
It is observed that in the world of sports, athletes, in order to remain at the peak of their performance as well as health, often overlook their mental health. This is a serious issue as it makes them vulnerable to mental depression, anxiety and such associated problems which could have serious repercussions.
Conventionally, in the sports world, being tough is often sought after. Being tough can mean showing no weakness or vulnerability, or showing that real-world problems and hardships have no effect on an individual or his/her mind, or for that matter, keeping up a fa?ade of being okay all the time. To top it all up, there is continuous pressure to excel in his or her respective field at all times. Needless to say, this takes a heavy toll on that person's mind.
The challenges present
The main challenge that one faces is the identification and recognition of the players/athletes who may be suffering from these sorts of problems. Often looked upon as role models, they may show reluctance in opening up about their problems and addressing them.
The other hurdle lies in noticing these issues. The teammates, coaches, family and friends play a pivotal role in this part as they may help identify initial symptoms, such as withdrawal, and mood swings etc. addressing them at an early stage is always beneficial.
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The Solutions
Just being there for someone to open up is the first step towards helping them. Listening to them, and seeing things from their perspective, all of these go a long way in helping them recover. Combined with counselling and therapy sessions as well as medications, if required, the athletes will be on a road to recovery.
All in all, putting a constant effort into prioritizing their mental health above all else can make the most significant difference in the long run.
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