Abstract

The role of mental health in athletics is crucial as it can significantly impact an athlete's performance, well-being, and overall success. Athletes face unique challenges and pressures, including intense training, competition, injuries, and the constant need to meet expectations and goals. Mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and eating disorders can affect an athlete's ability to perform at their best. Promoting a culture of mental health awareness and support within athletic organizations is crucial in addressing and preventing mental health issues among athletes. This can include destigmatizing mental health issues and encouraging open communication and access to resources for athletes to prioritize their mental well-being alongside their physical training. Strategies such as education and awareness, access to mental health resources, a culture of support and understanding, and personalized mental health management plans can help athletes prioritize their mental well-being alongside their athletic pursuits and ensure they receive the support they need. This essay examines the role of mental health in athletics, focusing on the prevalence of mental health issues in athletes, the impact of mental health issues on athletes' performance, and strategies to address mental health issues in athletes. The essay discusses how mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and eating disorders can affect athletes' concentration, energy, motivation, and overall well-being, impacting their performance during training and competition. It also emphasizes the importance of prioritizing mental health in athletics and highlights strategies such as working with mental health professionals, engaging in self-care practices, and seeking support to address mental health issues and improve athletes' performance and well-being.

Year Manuscript Completed

Spring 2023

Senior Project Advisor

Mr. Barton

Degree Awarded

Bachelor of Integrated Studies Degree

Field of Study

Health & Exercise Studies

Document Type

Thesis - Murray State Access only

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