A true statement - mental health is important. And lately, we are learning many ways to think about it, and questions are arising - what is mental health... really?
Some RISE community say:
One definition of mental health is "our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices."
Now, what is it exactly when it comes to sports - to athletes themselves? What is the difference between cultivating a healthy mental environment and then addressing serious mental health issues as they arise?
The difference comes down to awareness. We can become more aware of the things we need to do to plant seeds in youth - to empower them, teach them, be role models for them. We can become aware of the needs they have as individuals - how they learn, what they struggle with, where they excel, how they can change anxious behaviors. We can be aware, AND teach awareness through conversation, connection, and acceptance.
And when it comes to addressing serious issues as they arise, such as depression, eating disorders, or varying anxiety disorders, we know to ask for more help. We still remain aware AND we act more maturely. We release judgement. We practice compassion. We encourage, support, and remind the human of their innate strength. We teach fortitude, trust, and unconditional love. And, we guide toward the recovery that they need.
Nobody is broken, we know that from Simone Biles, Naomi Osaka, and Michael Phelps. Everyone deserves to learn about themselves and feel supported in the process.
You can be a great athlete AND learn to trust your mind. It is a beautiful thing. THAT is how you win. THAT is success. And the results of this support can show up as a positive outcome in sport - we definitely know that to be true.
Let's learn, become more aware, and apply things to our lives and to the lives of athletes. Health and Wellness are both mental and emotional gifts to this world. ❤️
- Caroline Burckle, RISE Athletes Co-Founder
This blog was originally published by RISE Athletes.
Source: https://www.rise-athletes.com/blog/what-is-mental-health
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