In the United States, approximately 46.6 million people have a mental illness. One out of every five adults will suffer from a mental illness. Many people use therapy, medication, a healthy diet, or exercise to manage their symptoms. According to research, exercising has improved mood and overall sports personality and mental health. Endorphins and enkephalins, two naturally produced hormones that make us feel better, can be increased by moving our bodies. It also gives us time to focus on ourselves rather than our hectic lives, which is a much-needed break for many of us.
On the other hand, sports personality are not immune to mental health issues when participating in sports. Being a sports personality can be incredibly difficult for a person’s mental health, given the pressures to perform in the game and the rest of their public lives. On top of practice and games, student-athletes face additional pressures to maintain their classwork and grades. When athletes are injured, they are given time to recover, but what if the injuries aren’t visible?
The statistics for young adults, particularly college sportsmen, are staggering: 33% of all college students have significant symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. Thirty percent of that group seeks assistance. However, only 10% of college players with mental health issues do so. According to statistics, up to 35% of professional athletes suffer from a mental health crisis, which can manifest as stress, eating disorders, burnout, depression, or anxiety. Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps, NBA player Kevin Love, USC volleyball player Victoria Garrick, and others sharing their stories and inspiring others to seek and help to support the cause inspire us.
While it may appear frightening, there are simple things you can do to improve your mental health. Talk to your family, teammates, coaches, or support staff; anyone with whom you feel comfortable sharing your concerns. Make an appointment with an advisor or a medical professional who can assist you in identifying stressors and managing your symptoms. Create a Self-Care Plan for yourself to ensure that you’re taking time away from training, academics, and the stresses of everyday life to do something for yourself every day, such as meditating, practicing yoga, going for a walk, and listening to music, or walk your pet.
It can sometimes be challenging but talk about it and deal with mental health issues. But being, n athletes are natural leaders and fearless self-starters who may hold the key to overcoming the challenges and stigma surrounding mental health! We can change how we think and talk about mental health if we work together to bring it into our daily conversations.