SSSPP Position paper: Mental health in competitive sport

Abstract

Mental disorders are common in competitive sports. They can influence performance, increase the risk of physical injuries and prolong rehabilitation. A specialized discipline for mental health has not (yet) been established. This position paper will emphasize the connection between the special requirements in competitive sports and the need of psychiatric specialization. Approaches for an improving psychiatric and psychotherapeutic care in competitive sports by establishing sports psychiatry and psychotherapy (incl. child and adolescent psychiatry and psychotherapy) as a professional and specialized discipline for mental health are discussed: The qualification of specialists in sports psychiatry and psychotherapy; cooperation in regard to contents and practicality between sports physicians, psychiatrists and psychotherapists and other medical disciplines as well as psychological psychotherapists, sports psychologists, mental coaches and other professions; the inclusion of athletes and parents, other members of the personal psychosocial environment, counsellors as well as clubs and associations.