EXSC199 Module 3: Contemporary Challenges in Sport - Mental Health

Flashcards about Mental Health in Sports

What is mental health?

A state of well-being where individuals realize their potential, cope with normal stresses, work productively, and contribute to their community; affects how we think, feel, and act.

What is a mental disorder?

A mental disorder is characterized by a clinically significant disturbance in an individual’s cognition, emotional regulation, or behaviour. It is usually associated with distress or impairment in important areas of functioning. There are many different types of mental disorders. Mental disorders may also be referred to as mental health conditions. The latter is a broader term covering mental disorders, psychosocial disabilities and (other) mental states associated with significant distress, impairment in functioning, or risk of self-harm.

What factors can influence movement along the mental health continuum?

Biological, social, psychological, economic, and environmental factors.

According to Rice et al (2016) and Sebbens et al (2016), does physical activity guarantee immunity from mental health struggles for athletes?

No, physical activity is good, but it doesn't mean athletes are immune or protected from the struggle or diagnosis of a mental health disorder.

Name some factors from Rice et al (2016) , Sebbens et al (2016), Kuettel & Larsen (2020) that influence mental health in sport.

High risk: Retired athletes & other times of career transition, athletes struggling to perform, low social support, injury, sports that focus on lean body shape. Nourish’ mental health: Supportive training culture, master climate created by the coach and sporting organization, role models

Give examples of roadblocks to seeking help for mental health issues.

Lack of knowledge/ understanding of mental health; Seeing it as a sign of 'weakness’ to seek/need help; Cannot take time out to work on mental health; Stigma

What is the premise of the Consensus Statement?

Mental health is a core component of a culture of excellence

What is mental health literacy?

Includes knowledge, recognition, management, and prevention; improving it has been linked with overcoming barriers to seeking help and stigma.

As an exercise or sport scientist working with athletes, what actions fall within your scope of practice regarding mental health?

Observe; Assess; Referral

List the 4 things that people can do to support others related to mental health.

Ask “ are you okay”; Try not to ignore; Try not to be a bystander; Be willing to talk about mental health