Best Practice Case Studies-Mental Health in Elite Athletes

Pdf Summary

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has released a consensus statement on mental health in elite athletes, emphasizing the systemic stigma hindering athletes from seeking mental health support. The consensus, informed by systematic reviews from a panel of 23 experts across 13 nations, seeks to offer a standardized, evidence-based approach to mental health issues prevalent among elite athletes, including sleep disorders, depression, anxiety, injury impacts, eating disorders, substance misuse, and addictions.<br /><br />Stigma emerges as a primary barrier, with athletes fearing that mental health disclosures could be perceived as weakness, potentially jeopardizing their careers. Additionally, a lack of mental health literacy, previous negative experiences in help-seeking, busy schedules, cultural stereotypes, particularly around masculinity, and societal expectations, further deter athletes from accessing care. <br /><br />There is a particular cultural and societal challenge in accepting women and minority athletes due to prevailing stereotypes and financial constraints, alongside a tendency to conceal religious beliefs that may also contribute to stressors affecting mental health.<br /><br />The consensus emphasizes the important role that coaches and sports organizations play in de-stigmatizing mental health issues and fostering an environment supportive of mental health help-seeking. Recommendations include not only addressing direct mental health conditions but also handling stressors like harassment and career termination, providing a holistic approach to athlete well-being.<br /><br />The IOC aspires for mental health disorders to be regarded similarly to other medical conditions, acknowledging their potential severity and manageability. This effort aims to correct misperceptions, break taboos, and inspire sports entities to prioritize mental well-being, thus aligning the athlete's health with societal ideals where personal wellbeing is encouraged and actively supported.

Meta Tag

Edition 3rd Edition

Related Case 3rd Edition, CASE 47

Topic Psychology

Keywords

3rd Edition, CASE 47

3rd Edition

Psychology

IOC

mental health

elite athletes

stigma

systematic reviews

mental health literacy

cultural stereotypes

coaches

sports organizations

holistic approach