Psychological Aspects of Injury
Returning from injury is as much a mental task as a physical one. Coping plans, film study and a graded route back to competition.
Overcoming injury can challenge an athlete’s mental state. For some athletes the prospect of not participating may cause self-doubt, stress and uncertainty about their livelihood. Many clients in this situation feel deflated by delays, and by the sense that their athletic career is not continuing. The goal for each athlete is to invigorate themselves to play again.
Athletic scenario: psychological aspects of injury
At VRC Sports I work with each client to find out their athletic background, including their reasoning behind trying out for sport. I do this by building intervention, coping and communication plans that engage each client. The toughest mental moments occur when players are unable to become active again in their sport of choice. There are many examples of athletes who have suffered a setback and been able to return. I also look at film of past success — some athletes learn by studying their craft from a different perspective. I encourage clients to get involved in the sideline aspect of each game, to embrace the challenge of overcoming a setback.
VRC assists each client overcoming injury by:
- Social support
- Confidence
- Competence
- Referral
- Accommodation
- Psychological skills
- Education
The six concepts of the SCRAPE approach (Hinderliter & Cardinal, 2007), alongside relaxation, focus and visualization.
Become that inspiring story
Sessions are by appointment, in person in Phoenix or virtually from anywhere. Start with a conversation about what you are working towards.