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When an athlete gets injured, whether it be a short-term or long-term rehabilitation and recovery, many new issues and stressors arise. The psychological factors play a key role in the length of time to recovery. Supporting both physical and psychological recovery in injured athletes is crucial, as research demonstrates that personality traits, fear of re-injury, and loss of interest all affect an athlete’s ability to return to play successfully1. The fear of re-injury is the leading reason for failure to return to competitive sport2. It has been established that return to play cannot be predicted by objective physical improvement post-surgery alone3, so why are teams still considering physical benchmarks to determine when a player can return to their sport?

Frequently, successful athletes, executives, or other professionals get sucked into the cycle of anticipatory anxiety. Anticipatory anxiety is best described as worry about something that has not yet happened and trying to prepare for an unpredictable future.

“I would like to talk to you about the athlete that you saw today.” Navigating this conversation can be incredibly difficult in clinical practice, especially if the athlete requests that details not be shared. Often, the request is made without understanding the conflicts this can cause or the potential damage the care partnership or at worst, with an unspoken disregard for the confidentiality of mental health services. Athletes deserve the right to confidential and accessible mental health services.

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition often associated with difficulty sustaining attention, being distracted easily, high levels of energy, and challenges managing impulses.

Many sports organizations are moving toward providing increased accessibility to mental health services to their athletes and even staff within the organization. Although there are many models for how a sports psychiatrist can be integrated, one of the most critical aspects is that the services should be accessible.

There has been a significant increase in mental health services being offered not only in corporate organizations but also in professional sports teams. Athletes are not immune to mental health conditions. They, in fact, have similar rates of anxiety and depression as the general population. Fortunately, many professional sporting leagues are seeing the value in having clinical services provided onsite, as well as performance-focused services. This has led to the development of specific requirements in various leagues, such as the NBA and NFL.

Teenagers today face a tremendous amount of pressure when it comes to their academic performance. The expectations placed on them to excel in school and secure a bright future can often lead to overwhelming levels of stress.

Playing sports as a pro or just for fun can be awesome. You get to compete and be part of a team. Sports challenge you and help you grow. But being an athlete also comes with lots of pressure. It is where a sports psychiatrist can make a big difference.

The connection between sleep and mental health is undeniable. Sleep disorders and mental health conditions often go hand in hand. Insomnia, for example, is a common symptom in individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Similarly, conditions like sleep apnea can exacerbate symptoms of mental health disorders and can even contribute to their development.

The American Heart Association advises everyone to reduce daily stress. Studies show that if you let stress take over, you may develop mental and physical disorders.

“You woke up on the wrong side of the bed” is often used to describe someone in a bad mood. It's a relatable experience; insufficient sleep can make you more irritable and hinder your ability to navigate the day easily. Lack of sleep can also contribute to a range of negative emotions. 

Interpersonal therapy is a form of psychotherapy that lasts between 12 and 16 sessions, meaning that it is short-term. Psychologists and counselors use the treatment to treat conditions like depression and others.

Many people may think all therapists are the same and are equipped to resolve any mental and emotional issues. While part of this is true, many of these mental health professionals usually have an area of specialization.

Naval Ravikant once said, “A healthy man wants ten thousand things; a sick man wants just one thing—to be well.” Health is one of the most—if not the most—important aspects of living. Without health, you are robbed of many aspirations, and your dreams fade into the gray. Bodily and mental health is essential, and keeping these two in balance is the only way to ultimate well-being. 

Naval Ravikant once said, “A healthy man wants ten thousand things; a sick man wants just one thing—to be well.” Health is one of the most—if not the most—important aspects of living. Without health, you are robbed of many aspirations, and your dreams fade into the gray. Bodily and mental health is essential, and keeping these two in balance is the only way to ultimate well-being.