Anxiety Is...

Defined by feelings of unease and worry, which can also make it difficult for us as athletes to perform well in our sport.

It can be caused by any stressful situation that causes uncertainty. For example, if as an athlete we have a championship on the line, we may experience anxiety.

A common mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide.

Sports anxiety is quite common. As athletes we often perform under scrutiny of not just our teammates but also our fans. We are often known for our physical prowess and mental toughness. However the pressure of competition and performance can lead to anxiety.

The consequences for failed or diminished athletic performance can be both personal (embarrassment, loss of confidence, media reporting, loss of status) and professional (loss of contracts, coach, income etc).

It’s important to note that everybody experiences anxiety differently. Generally anxious people might experience some physical and mental effects.

Characterised by feelings of worry, nervousness, and fear that can interfere with daily life.

For us as athletes, anxiety can manifest in different ways. Some of us may experience performance anxiety, which is a type of social anxiety that occurs when we are afraid of being judged by others during competition. This can lead to symptoms such as sweating, shaking, and a racing heart, all of which can negatively affect our performance.

We may also experience generalised anxiety, which is a more chronic and persistent form of anxiety that can impact our overall well-being. This can include feelings of worry and fear that are not necessarily related to competition or performance, but can still interfere with our ability to focus and perform at our best.