Challenging the Stigma: Prioritizing Mental Health in Sports
Let's talk about the unspoken rule in sports: the unwavering belief in the "tough it out" mantra. It's the kind of mindset that's so ingrained, it makes admitting you might need a mental health breather feel like an Olympic feat or like winning the game of Survivor.
But guess what? It doesn’t have to be like that. In this blog, we're pulling back the curtain on why athletes and their parents avoid seeking help. The stats are staggering regarding the challenges student athletes face regarding mental health. We hope that student athletes will understand the value and importance of seeking support from mental health professionals. Phases Virginia offers sports therapy specifically designed for student athletes.
The "Tough It Out" Mentality:
Many athletes have been conditioned to adopt a "tough it out" mentality, believing that they should be able to overcome any obstacle through sheer willpower and determination. This mindset has been perpetuated for generations, with coaches, teammates, and even society applauding athletes who push through pain, injuries, and emotional challenges. While this resilience is undoubtedly admirable, it can lead to a dangerous assumption: that mental health struggles should be overcome independently, without professional help.
Why Athletes and Their Parents Resist Seeking Help:
Fear of Stigmatization:
Athletes are often afraid of being stigmatized or perceived as weak if they admit to struggling with their mental health. This fear can extend to their parents, who may also hesitate to seek help for their children, fearing that it will reflect negatively on the family or the athlete's career.
Pressure to Perform:
The intense pressure to perform at a high level can deter athletes from seeking help. They may believe that acknowledging mental health issues will be seen as an excuse for poor performance or a sign of inadequacy.
Lack of Awareness:
Many athletes and parents may not be fully aware of the importance of mental health in sports performance. The focus is often placed on physical conditioning and skill development, with little attention given to the psychological aspects of the game.
Self-Reliance:
Athletes are conditioned to be self-reliant and to believe that they can overcome any challenge on their own. While this trait can be an asset in many situations, it can also prevent them from reaching out for the support they need.
Statistics on Student Athletes and Mental Health:
The mental health challenges faced by student athletes are a growing concern. Here are some statistics that shed light on the extent of this issue:
According to the NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association), over 30% of college athletes report feeling overwhelming anxiety.
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Sport Psychology found that approximately 34% of college athletes reported high levels of depression symptoms.
The NCAA also reports that student athletes are less likely to seek mental health services than their non-athlete peers, citing stigma and concerns about confidentiality as barriers.
Real-Life Examples of Athletes Who Delayed Seeking Help: “tough it out”
Michael Phelps:
The most decorated Olympian of all time, Michael Phelps, struggled with depression and anxiety throughout his career. Phelps has since become an advocate for mental health awareness and has emphasized the importance of seeking support.
He admitted to avoiding help for years due to the fear of appearing weak.
Kevin Love:
NBA star Kevin Love opened up about his struggles with panic attacks and anxiety during a game. Love's decision to speak out and seek therapy has had a significant impact on reducing the stigma surrounding mental health in professional sports.
Like many athletes, he initially resisted seeking professional help.
Simone Biles:
Olympic gymnast Simone Biles withdrew from the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, citing mental health concerns. Her decision was met with both support and criticism, highlighting the ongoing debate about mental health in sports.
Biles later expressed that she wished she had sought help sooner, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing mental well-being.
The “tough it out” mentality has long been ingrained in the world of sports, but it's essential to recognize that mental health should not be neglected or underestimated. Athletes and their parents should feel empowered to seek professional mental health services when needed, without fear of stigma or judgment. The statistics on student athletes' mental health challenges are a wake-up call, and the stories of athletes like Michael Phelps, Kevin Love, and Simone Biles serve as powerful reminders of the importance of prioritizing mental well-being.
For athletes looking to access mental health services, organizations like Phases Virginia provide specialized support tailored to the unique challenges faced by athletes. By challenging this mentality, we can create a culture where mental well-being is as valued as physical prowess, leading to healthier, happier athletes both on and off the field. Let's break the silence and prioritize mental health in sports.