TACKLING SPORT’ S UNSEEN MENTAL BATTLES
What are some common mistakes people make when trying to help someone who may be struggling with their mental health?
One of the biggest mistakes is not saying anything at all. Avoiding the conversation means the person may never get the support they need. Another mistake is trying to become someone’ s psychologist. You are not expected to diagnose or treat them. Just as you would refer someone with a physical injury to a medical professional, it is important to help people access the right mental health support.
People should also avoid dismissive comments such as“ It’ s all in your head” or“ Just pull yourself together.” Even if a struggle is psychological, it is still very real. Comments like these minimise the person’ s experience and can make them feel blamed for what they are going through.
The goal should be to acknowledge that what they are experiencing is real and encourage them to get appropriate support.
If an athlete recognises that they are not coping, what practical steps can they take to seek help?
The first and most important step is to tell somebody.
Many coaches, doctors and support staff have networks of trusted professionals they can refer athletes to. If an athlete is uncomfortable speaking to people close to them, they can contact organisations such as SADAG, visit their family doctor or speak to a general practitioner who can make an appropriate referral.
The key is not to try and manage everything alone. Reaching out is often the hardest step, but it is also the most important one.
Anything else you’ d like to add?
The biggest priority is reducing the stigma around mental health. The more we talk about it and educate people, the easier it becomes for athletes to seek help when they need it.
There also needs to be better access to mental health support across all sports. Athletes in major professional team environments often have access to doctors, psychologists and support networks, but those in many individual sports can be left to navigate challenges on their own.
Coaches are especially important because they are often the people closest to athletes on a daily basis. The more coaches are educated about mental health and the more comfortable athletes feel speaking to them, the better the chances of identifying problems early and ensuring athletes eceive the support they need.
Speak to a trusted coach, family member, friend or teammate and simply say,“ I’ m struggling.” It sounds simple, but until someone knows there is a problem, it is difficult for them to help.
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