Why mental Health matters in sports.....
PERFORMANCE ENHANCEMENT
-mental resilience improves focus, anxiety, decision-making, and stress tolerance under pressure
INJURY RECOVERY
-psychological support accelerates recovery and reduces re-injury risk and helps cope with loss
BURNOUT PREVENTION
-helps athletes manage stress, expectations and over training
TRANSITION SUPPORT
-assists with life transitions and loss (eg. retirement, injury or moving levels)
OVERALL WELL-BEING
-promotes emotional health, self-esteem and life satisfaction
-visualization and imagery
- goal setting
- focus and attention control
- Self-awareness and confidence building
- positive self-talk
- mindfulness and meditation
-understanding common mental health conditions and concerns (eg. anxiety, depression, stress)
- use growth mindset to regulate emotions
- breaking stigma around seeking help for mental strength
- develop grit and perseverance
- learn how to recognize symptoms in yourself and others
- explore and practice coping skills to improve conditions
-breathing techniques
-progressive muscle relaxation
- importance of sleep hygiene
- time management skills
- nutrition
- journaling and meditation
- using peer support and creating safe environment