Mental Health in Athletes

by Christoffer Lowenhielm, PLPC

In the past years there have been multiple instances where mental health and sports have been the talking point in their cohesive relationship with one another. Some recent events that come to mind are Simone Biles at the Summer Olympics, Damar Hamlin after his scary injury on the football field, and most recently National Hockey League banning pride and cancer awareness warmup jerseys. These are just some of the major reasons why I want to bring awareness to the mental status of sports, so we can help athletes understand their mental health can impact their
overall performance on and off the field.

The reason why this topic is so important to me is that I used to be an athlete who struggled with mental health, which impacted not only my growth as an athlete but my life outside of sports. I demonstrated signs of depression, low confidence, anxiety, and low self-esteem. After I retired from hockey, there was a part of me that wanted to investigate how to better my own mental health and help other athletes improve their confidence and mental health. I found four important areas to focus on when looking to improve an athlete’s mental health.

First, focus on things you can control, which is my attitude and my effort. When focusing on myself and not worrying about the past or future, the results will take care of itself. Other individuals' actions will not change what drives me forward.

Second, dream big, ignore those who doubt you, and never give up on a dream. Only yourself can decide your dreams. They can be fulfilled with hard work and a clear mind without distractions.

Third, choosing to have faith over fear. Let the heart carry the dreams and confidence in the abilities you worked so hard to master and achieve. Continuing to master the skills you want to be great at will shadow any fears or doubts you may have.

Fourth, loving what you do and attacking the day with a smile, joy, and enthusiasm. If there is a
passion deep in your heart for what you are doing, you will be able to climb mountains. Focusing
on that joy and the reason why you feel in love with what you are doing will help overcome even
the hardest of days.