Coping with doping: Performance-enhancing drugs in the athletic culture

Abstract

Performance-enhancing drug (PED) use is a known and increasingly recognized maladaptive behavior among athletes of all ages and levels of competition. The underlying reasons for use are diverse and may include attempting to gain a selective advantage, to recover from injury, or to optimize cosmetic appearance. The veil of secrecy and stigma regarding PED use challenges the careful study of use behavior patterns, but there is an emerging body of evidence linking PED use to the presence and development of mental health disorders. In order to counteract PED use in the interest of athlete safety and fair play, most governing sports bodies have imposed escalating penalties, including performance bans, for multiple-time PED offenders. It is important for the treating provider to become familiar with PED use and use patterns in order to have an educated discussion with the at-risk athlete.