Professional athletes face numerous physical challenges during their careers. Whether it is exhausting training or intensive competition, they push their bodies beyond what many of us can imagine. It is increasingly recognised that athletes have unique needs when it comes to improving and taking care of their mental health during and after their sporting career.

Over the last decade Susan has worked with elite-level athletes and professionals to improve their mental health, well-being, performance, expand their longevity in sport and maximise their potential. She has worked with athletes who have struggled with mental health difficulties such as depression, anxiety, substance use and other conditions. Susan has supported and improved the psychological well-being of Olympic and Commonwealth games athletes and professional players from all football codes in Australia.

Elite-level professionals work hard to improve their physical performance. However, with their situation there are numerous emotional challenges that can surface as difficult events occur throughout their sporting career and personal life.

Personal Life

Mental health does not discriminate. In addition to the particular needs of mental health for an athlete - they also have personal difficulties that we all are at risk of facing. Issues such as relationship difficulties, substance abuse, anger management, depression and anxiety unrelated to their sporting situation and many other conditions.

Pressures and expectations

Sportspeople experience a unique set of pressures in their professions from scoring goals and winning trophies to facing media scrutiny and meeting the high expectations of their club, coaches and fans.

INJURIES

Events such as repetitive or significant injuries can keep an athlete out for long periods of time. For some athletes, the psychological response to injury can trigger mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, risk-taking behaviours (such as drink driving), disordered eating and substance use.

Retirement

Approaching retirement is a particularly challenging time for most sportspeople, who have spent their entire lives being defined as athletes. Their self-esteem is challenged, and they can feel uncertain about the future.

I work with many high profile clients who require increased privacy and discretion. In these circumstances, additional privacy considerations can be taken. This may include special scheduling (such as evening or weekend appointments) and/or location accommodations (ie. meeting you at your home or sporting facility). Furthermore, it may include customised intensives (2-4 hour sessions) to accommodate clients with frequent sporting commitments and travel schedules.

Meeting time and location for consultations are flexible. I adapt the way I deliver consultations to suit your environment, needs and schedule.

Fees for athlete consulting are determined by the location, day, time, and length of our sessions.

 

Please contact me to arrange an initial conversation.

susan Crisford Psychology

E: connect@susancrisford.com.au