Recognising Anxiety in Sport

Anxiety can often manifest in physical symptoms, like a racing heart or sweaty palms, but it can also affect an athlete’s mindset and performance. Let’s explore how to recognise anxiety in sport and what to do if you or someone you know is struggling with it.

What are the Physical Symptoms of Anxiety?

These may include:

  • Rapid heart rate
  • Sweating
  • Shaking or trembling
  • Shortness of breath
  • Nausea or stomach discomfort
  • Headaches
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Muscle tension or stiffness

If you notice any of these symptoms in yourself or a teammate, it may be a sign of anxiety. Although some of these symptoms can also be a normal part of athletic performance, it’s essential to pay attention to any changes in intensity or frequency as a way to recognise the symptoms as anxiety.

Changes in Behaviour or Mood

Anxiety can also affect an athlete’s behaviour and mood. Be sure to keep an eye out for the following changes:

  • Irritability or mood swings
  • Avoidance of certain situations or activities
  • Increased aggression or agitation
  • Loss of interest in sports or other activities
  • Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
  • Changes in appetite or sleep patterns

Performance Changes

Anxiety can also impact an athlete’s performance in sports. Be aware of the following changes:

  • Decreased performance or ability
  • Difficulty starting or finishing tasks
  • Impaired decision-making or judgment
  • Increased mistakes or errors
  • Difficulty with coordination or balance

It’s essential to note that these changes may be due to other contributing factors as well, but if you notice a consistent pattern, it may be worth exploring whether anxiety is a factor.

How do I Manage Anxiety in Sport?

If you notice anxiety in yourself or a teammate, it’s essential to take action. Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Acknowledge the issue: Recognise that anxiety is a common experience for athletes and that it’s okay to ask for help.
  2. Talk to a coach or trainer: They can provide support and resources to manage anxiety, including referrals to mental health professionals.
  3. Seek professional help: If anxiety is interfering with your ability to participate in sports or other activities, consider seeking professional help from a mental health professional.
  4. Take care of yourself: Practice self-care, such as getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly.
  5. Encourage others to seek help: If you notice anxiety in a teammate, encourage them to seek help and offer support.
  6. Learn about anxiety in sport so you can help yourself and others.

Dealing with Anxiety in Young Players eLearning Course

Our ‘Dealing with Anxiety in Young Players’ Online course will help you to detect heightened levels of Anxiety in your young players along with the best ways of helping them deal with this in a positive way.

The course will focus on exploring anxiety in young players.

As part of the course, learners will develop an understanding of the ways in which we can promote positive mental health and reduce the risk of developing anxiety disorders through implementing preventative measures. After completing this course, you will understand how to:

  • Increase understanding of mental health and mental ill health
  • Improve awareness of the role of risk factors and protective factors in preventing mental ill health
  • Raise awareness in relation to anxiety and anxiety disorders
  • Increase awareness in relation to the role those working in the sporting environment can play
  • Provide information on how to access appropriate support and intervention

Finally, learners will acquire knowledge of the ways in which they can support young people with anxiety disorders and know when and how to signpost to specialist services when required.

ENROL: Sign up for the Anxiety course today!

 

 

 

Check out our Learning Experience Platform (LXP) offer, you can enrol multiple users on our Anxiety in young players eLearning course, alongside a range of others useful courses on subjects such as EDI, Mental Health, Governance and much more.

The Learning Experience Platforms are created by eCoach, the UK’s leading providers of sports focused eLearning in the UK.

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