Mental Health in Olympic Sport & Protection of Athletes

Indian Olympic Association recognises that mental health is an important aspect in the wellbeing of athletes. Scientific research currently suggests that mental health disorders affect up to 35 per cent of elite athletes at some stage of their careers. 
 
Addressing the multifaceted aspects of mental health symptoms and disorders in elite athletes, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has published a Consensus Paper on Mental Health this month, which is shared as attachment. The Paper includes several topics, including the incidence of mental health symptoms and disorders, post-traumatic stress, anxiety, sleep, substance use, gambling and other behavioural addictions, management of mental health emergencies, and bipolar and psychotic disorders. The Paper also investigates the barriers that prevent elite athletes from accessing mental health resources while also creating a sporting environment that supports mental well-being and resilience. We request you to please share this Paper with the Sports/ Team Director and Team Doctor of the National Sports Federation.
 
In this regard, we are also pleased to inform that IOA President Dr. Narinder Dhruv Batra has appointed renowned sports psychologist Dr. Divya Jain as member of IOA Medical Commission today. She serves as Head of Psychological Services, Department of Mental Health and Behavioural Sciences, Fortis Healthcare, New Delhi. Dr. Jain is specialised in Sports Psychology and had held a session with the Indian Olympic Team that participated in Buenos Aires Youth Olympic Games 2018. She was available on call throughout the Games period in helping young athletes. Her services would now be beneficial for the athletes preparing for Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

IOC-Medical(Con-2)