Signs & Symptoms
- Problems with concentration, memory or ability to think clearly
- Changes in eating (overeating or loss of appetite)
- Unable to complete tasks
- Feeling overly worried
- Feeling sad, empty, hopeless or worthless
- Sensitivity to sound, sight, smell and touch
- Irritability and restlessness
- Loss of interest in activities you previously enjoyed
- Withdrawn or disconnected from others
- Feeling like your brain is playing tricks on you (hearing knocking, scratching, name being called)
- Changes in energy level and sleep patterns (sleeping during the day and awake at night)
A combination of symptoms lasting longer than a week might indicate a mental health condition.
Athlete Burnout
Athlete burnout is a syndrome of continual training and sport attention stress, resulting in staleness, over training and, eventually, burnout. Many athletes experiencing burnout report feeling trapped by circumstances of sports participation.
Signs and symptoms of burnout include:
- Leveling off or diminished performance or conditioning, including strength and stamina losses and chronic fatigue
- Physiological signs such as having a higher resting heart rate and blood pressure
- Cognitive issues such as difficulty in concentration, diminished work in school or forgetfulness
- Illnesses as a result of suppressed immune system
- Emotional issues such as disinterest, moodiness and irritability
- Low self-esteem, increased anxiety and depression as a result of falling short of sport demands
Best methods to prevent and treat athlete burnout:
Rest & time away from sports
Getting Help
There are many resources available to those in need:
- Primary care physician
- Local mental health centers
- Employee assistance programs
- Local Mental Health America affiliate
- Churches and worship centers
If someone you know is in need of immediate crisis intervention, call 1-800-273-TALK (8255), go to your local emergency room or call 911.
Sources: Mental Health America, NATA Infographic provided by the National Athletic Trainers’ Association
