Athletes
Resiliency and “high mental toughness” are two attributes that are usually associated with
athletes of all ages. Athletes become accustomed to working under stressful
circumstances. We may learn that playing high level sports does not make athletes
immune to mental health challenges. Due to the emphasis on appearing physically and
mentally fit in the athlete world, it may be difficult for athletes to prioritize their mental
health and that can later perpetuate silent suffering and self-isolation. With pressures to
perform in the game, as well as in the rest of their public lives, being an athlete can be
incredibly challenging for a person’s mental health.
Student athletes have additional pressures to maintain, such as their classwork and grades
on top of practice and games. It is common for athletes to experience lower levels of self-
esteem and sensation-seeking that may lead to risk for depression, anxiety, social anxiety,
and negative physical symptoms, all of which may impede performance. Here at Living
Within Therapy, we will explore all potential areas of focus for Athlete clients including
but not limited to; perfectionism, burnout, interpersonal needs, injury, vulnerabilities,
self-identity, adjustment after sports, and depression and anxiety.
Signs of depression in athletes may include; difficulty concentrating or a lack of
confidence or motivation, decreases in energy or feelings of chronic fatigue, changes in
sleep, eating patterns, or appetite, a short temper or excessive irritability, drug or alcohol
use, loss of interest in activities that once provided pleasure. Signs of anxiety disorders in
athletes may include; apprehensiveness, feelings of powerlessness, a sense of doom, panic,
or impending danger, tiredness or weakness, rapid breathing, and sweating or trembling.
When athletes get hurt, they receive time to heal. Here at Living Within Therapy, we
allow athletes to heal from the injuries that are not visible. Seeking help from a provider at
Living Within Therapy can help athletes on and off the field. This may help athletes to
process their experiences and find healthy coping skills to manage the stress and pressure
that comes with their position. If this sounds like you or a loved one, reaching out for a
higher level of support is the first step to allow a more balanced life outside of the athletic
identity.