The key lies in understanding and managing anxiety effectively. Mental Health professionals play a crucial role in offering personalized strategies to face this challenge. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Relaxation Techniques (Conscious Breathing, Mindfulness, Meditation) can be valuable tools in this process.
Many times, uncertainty generates or intensifies anxiety. Therefore, it is key to implement Psychoeducation and maintain it as an essential pillar in the management of anxiety in athletes. Providing clear and accessible information about the psychological aspects of sports performance helps athletes understand and normalize their emotional experiences, creating a solid foundation for addressing anxiety.
Additionally, the support of the coaching staff is invaluable. Creating an environment of trust and open communication allows athletes to share their concerns and receive appropriate support. Collaboration between coaches and Mental Health professionals is essential to design integrated programs that strengthen the psychological resilience of athletes.
In another order of things, but within High Performance Sports, anxiety, often underestimated in the recovery process from sports injuries, plays a crucial role in rehabilitation. Uncertainty, fear of performance, and pressure to return affect both the mind and the body. In this context, mental health care becomes an essential component.
Mental Health professionals play a key role in providing strategies to manage anxiety during recovery. Psychotherapy, positive visualization techniques, and emotional support help overcome the psychological challenges associated with injuries.
This connection between anxiety and rehabilitation highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach that considers both physical and mental health. Recognizing and addressing anxiety in this process not only speeds recovery, but also strengthens athletes’ emotional resilience, allowing them to confidently return to their activity.
It is extremely important to explain to the athlete’s Coaching Staff that the time of physical recovery from the injury does not always coincide with the time of mental/emotional recovery (in fact, it practically never happens). If we give this information beforehand, it will be easier and more bearable to work as a team, in pursuit of the well-being of the high-performance athlete.
Anxiety should not be underestimated in the world of high performance sports. The combination of approaches from Mental Health, Psychoeducation and the solid support of the coaching staff constitute the formula to optimize mental well-being and enhance sports performance.
DR. IVANNA MELONI CAFARELLI – MN129.301
PSYCHIATRIC PHYSICIAN
ESP. IN ANXIETY DISORDERS
NEUROSCIENCES AND HIGH PERFORMANCE SPORTS
Htal. Pirovano
Scientific Secretary of the APSA Anxiety Disorders Chapter
If you need professional support, you can contact Dr:
IG: @dra.ivanameloni
www.doctorameloni.com/
by CEDOC