With the conclusion of the Olympic Games, there is a push to recognise and support the mental health of Australia’s elite athletes as they transition out of the high-stress competition and cope with the aftermath.
A study by various Sydney and Melbourne university researchers into the experiences of athletes during the post-Olympic phase aims to bring the challenges of these athletes into focus.
The study found that the quality of the athlete’s performance at the Games, their identity beyond elite sport and whether or not they had future plans, had significant impacts on their mental recovery.
Ensuring these athletes have a strong support system, both in-person and online, can help them transition back into normal life.