In the world of sports, physical strength, speed, and endurance often take center stage. But behind the scenes, many athletes face mental health challenges that are just as demanding, and often far less visible. From anxiety and depression to burnout and performance pressure, athletes at every level are navigating complex emotional landscapes, sometimes in silence.
The Pressure of Performance
Athletes are constantly pushed to perform at their best, and that pressure comes from every direction, coaches, teammates, fans, and even themselves. For student-athletes, this pressure is compounded by academic responsibilities and social expectations. According to a report by the NCAA, anxiety, depression, and sleep issues continue to be leading mental health concerns among student-athletes (Johnson, 2022).
Professional hockey player Ben Meisner captured this pressure vividly in The Players’ Tribune, writing:
“In my mind they became my enemies. And lots of times it seemed like I could actually feel them breathing down my neck. All 320 of them.”
This sense of constantly being measured and compared can be overwhelming, and it’s a feeling many athletes quietly share.
The Weight of Unseen Injuries
Mental health struggles are not as obvious as a broken bone or a sprained ankle, but that does not make them any less important. Many young athletes experience stress, anxiety, or low moods, especially when the pressure to perform starts to build. These feelings are real, even if they are not visible to others.
In sports, there is often this idea that you have to be tough or stay strong no matter what. But ignoring how you really feel can make things even harder. Taking care of your mental health is just as important as training your body, and it is completely okay to ask for help when you need it. Reaching out can be the first step to feeling better and finding your confidence again.
The Role of Sports Psychology
This is where sports psychology can make a real difference. Sports psychologists specialize in helping athletes manage the mental and emotional demands of competition while improving their overall well-being.These skills help athletes improve focus, recover from mistakes, and stay mentally strong in high-pressure moments.
Our Calgary-based therapist Calen Jobson puts it best:
“The pain pushes until the vision pulls.”
This quote speaks to the idea that adversity can be a powerful motivator, when paired with the right mindset and support. Mindfulness is another tool gaining popularity among athletes. In fact, members of the Edmonton Oilers have embraced mindfulness practices to help manage game-day stress and maintain mental clarity.
Why Choose Insight Psychological for Sports Psychology in Edmonton?
While physical training is essential, the mental side of an athlete’s game is equally important. At Insight Psychological, our experienced sports psychologists work with athletes to build mental strength, resilience, and focus using proven techniques like visualization, relaxation strategies, and goal setting.
Athletes often hear phrases like “think positive” or “shake it off,” but rarely are they taught how to do that. Sports psychology bridges that gap, helping you manage stress, stay focused under pressure, and bounce back from setbacks.
Whether you’re dealing with performance anxiety, trouble concentrating, or mental blocks that are holding you back, we can help you gain the edge you need, both in sport and in life.
Insight offers in-person, online, or telephone counselling. Contact us to learn more or book an appointment.
References
Johnson, B. (2022). Mental Health Issues Remain on Minds of Student-Athletes. NCAA. https://www.ncaa.org/news/2022/5/24/media-center-mental-health-issues-remain-on-minds-of-student-athletes.aspx
