How Injuries Take Their Toll and What to Do About It
Photo By Rowan Swim Member Megan Miller
One of the great things about athletics is the thrill of competition. Victory can bring incredible joy, while losing does just the opposite. These are important learning experiences and one of the ways that sports help build character that directly translates into the “real world”. Sports are an emotional experience for most athletes, as some even see them as a way to express themselves.
Athletes can come to rely on this expression as an emotional outlet. While this is a beautiful thing (as any athlete would attest to), emotional/mental complications can occur when this outlet becomes unavailable. Injury, of course, can dampen that expression and lead to negative emotions.
Athletes who suffer injury may experience frustration, sadness, grief, depression, and a lack of motivation. They can feel isolated and begin doubting their body. Their routine changes, their environment changes, and their relationship with their body can change. Since many athletes have their identities tied to their physical abilities, this can prove to be a challenge for many of them to overcome. The rehab process can present a whole new set of challenges. There are many factors to consider during a rehabilitation program, and progress is not always completely linear, which can also take a toll on an athlete.
““Comparisons of athletes before and after injury have indicated greater mood disturbance, lowered self esteem, and increased depression after injury” ”
Rowan University Swimmer Cayla Brie knows firsthand how the process can affect mental wellness. “The hardest part of dealing with injury has been changing my lifestyle,” Brie said. “Instead of going to practice and lift everyday, I’m going to physical therapy and for my daily walk. I have identified myself as an athlete for the past 10 years and a serious athlete for the past 4. Changing my daily routine and goals has definitely been the hardest.”
It’s perfectly normal for athletes to experience these emotions. However, there are ways to combat these feelings and maintain the positive mindset needed to optimize one’s rehabilitation. A team approach is the best approach to helping an athlete rehab not just their body, but their mind.
For the therapist
Listening to your clients and being an outlet for them to express their emotions can be a powerful catalyst for their rehab. Therapists can connect with the athlete’s coaches, parents, and trainers to formulate a support network for the athlete’s mental, physical, and emotional well being. It’s also important to keep the athlete involved in the goal setting process so that they feel their voice is heard. Celebrate their milestones with them and make them feel safe in the environment that you are creating while still challenging them to be their best.
For the athlete
Maintaining contact with/being around your team will help maintain a level of normalcy. Even though it can be hard to see others performing while you are unable to, your teammates and coaches can be an uplifting and positive influence on you. Trusting the process is also key. Your belief in the healing and rehab process can positively influence your progress.
You also may need to rethink your approach to rehab. Many athletes think the best strategy is to “attack” their rehab, and while this is necessary in certain situations, the recovery process often requires something that athletes struggle far more with: letting go and allowing their bodies to heal.
For the coach
A coach’s support can be instrumental in an athlete’s rehabilitation. Often times athletes seek their coach’s “permission” to pursue rehab and it’s important that you don’t pressure the athlete to continue playing through injury. Allow your athletes to go through their necessary recovery and encourage their attendance at therapy. Establish a relationship with the athlete’s therapy team in order to keep the lines of communication open.
Citation: Johnston LH, Carroll D
The psychological impact of injury: effects of prior sport and exercise involvementBritish Journal of Sports Medicine 2000;34:436-439.
Link to source article: https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/34/6/436
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