Professional athletes often have public relations representatives who help them “handle” or “manage” the message about a performance or behavioral issue, but it can be challenging to find mental health professionals who understand the unique challenges that professionals athletes and their families face, who can help that athlete get to the core issues and deal with the problem. In fact, the American Psychological Association states “Athletics subject a person to a unique set of challenges and circumstances that can make a person vulnerable to feelings of depression or anxiety.”

Stress, expectations, balance, focus, ADHD, eating disorders, addictions, and trauma– these are just a few of the other issues athletes may face which can distract them and ultimately negatively impact their performance. Working through their concerns in a confidential space and with a trusted mental health professional can be the key to unlocking their full ability. Athletes are often expected to perform as machines on the field or court; however, emotions are never mechanical and, if not managed well, may begin to “spill” over in other areas of life.

How can you let your emotions show in a way that you are not able to show them on the court, field, or in the training facility?

Adam R Glendye MA MFT, LAPC

aglendye@growcounseling.com