Mental Health Experts Join Indian Olympic Team for Paris Games

Mental Health Takes Center Stage at Paris Olympics with Indian Experts on Board

As the Paris Olympics draw near, the importance of mental health in sports has gained unprecedented recognition. Bengaluru-based sports psychologist Divya Jain and psychiatrist Dr. Samir Parikh will join the Indian Olympic Association's medical team, marking a significant shift in the approach to athlete well-being.

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the mental toll on athletes, with uncertainty and isolation disrupting training routines and fueling anxiety. The Tokyo Olympics witnessed a watershed moment when Simone Biles withdrew from events due to the "twisties," sparking a global conversation about mental health.

"The conventional idea of athletes needing mental support was largely to do with getting into a zone and reaching an optimal performance state," said Dr. Parikh. "But now, we understand that the mental wellness of an athlete is extremely important too."

For India's Paris-bound athletes, Jain and Parikh will provide comprehensive mental health support before, during, and after the Games. "We will be available to assist athletes both before as well as after the Games too," said Parikh. "The impact of the competition does, after all, tend to go on for longer."

Jain emphasizes the stigma associated with seeking help for mental health issues among athletes. "Athletes can worry about being perceived as weak if they express emotions or mental struggle," she said.

To address this, Jain and Parikh have introduced themselves to the athletes and established a medical room where they will be available for consultations. They will employ techniques such as visualization, mindfulness-based training, and focus regulation to enhance performance and manage stress.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has also recognized the importance of mental health, providing athletes with access to a mindfulness app and a dedicated mental health helpline.

The inclusion of mental health experts in the Indian Olympic medical team is a testament to the growing awareness of the crucial role mental well-being plays in athletic performance and overall health.

Tags: #MentalHealthInSports#ParisOlympics#SportsPsychology#AthleteWellbeing#SimoneBiles#Twisties