World Mental Health Day, observed on 10 October, focuses on raising awareness and promoting global action for mental health. This year’s theme emphasises the importance of mental health in all aspects of life, including workplaces, schools, and communities. The day encourages open discussions about mental well-being, combating stigma, and improving access to mental health services, ensuring that mental health becomes a universal priority for individuals and societies alike.
Mental health is vital in sports, as athletes face high pressure, stress, and performance demands. Prioritising mental well-being helps improve focus, resilience, and overall performance while reducing burnout and anxiety. Support systems and mental health awareness are essential for fostering balanced, healthy athletes.
Judo offers significant mental health benefits alongside its physical training. The sport fosters discipline, mindfulness, and stress management by promoting focus and emotional control. Through overcoming challenges on the mat, participants develop resilience and self-confidence. Judo’s emphasis on respect, community, and mutual support also helps reduce feelings of isolation, making it a powerful practice for improving overall mental well-being. However, the individual still faces tough times, especially for elite athletes…
European Judo Union’s Mental Health Initiative
The European Judo Union (EJU) has launched a training program to promote mental health awareness in sports. The initiative equips athletes, coaches, and professionals with tools to address mental health challenges.
Prominent judoka Martyna Trajdos supports the effort, emphasising the importance of mental health in competitive sports. The program covers stress management, emotional regulation, and resilience-building to foster a supportive sports environment. This initiative aims to create a culture of care and understanding, ensuring mental health becomes a priority for athletes and the sports community.
In addition, the European Weeks of Judo Values 2024, with its theme “Find Your Balance,” focuses not only on gender equality but also on maintaining a healthy life balance both on and off the mat, including emotional well-being.
Join the program: https://www.eju-education.net/course/view.php?id=32
Did You Know?
Prevalence of Mental Health Issues in Sport (2024)
Depression:
- 13%-20% of athletes experience depression during their careers
- 15%-20% of athletes report depression during injury
- 40% of athletes face depression at the end of their career
- In comparison, the general population experiences depression at a rate of 12%-20%.
Anxiety:
- 2%-19% of athletes struggle with anxiety .
- In the general population, anxiety affects 14%-15%.
Eating Disorders:
- 25% of athletes in aesthetic, endurance, or weight-class sports face eating disorders .
- In anti-gravity sports, up to 18% of males and 45% of females are affected .
- In contrast, eating disorders affect 3%-6% of the general population.
These statistics highlight the importance of mental health awareness in sports. A survey conducted in 2022 among the Athlete365 community revealed that one in five elite athletes had suffered poor mental health in the past year.
Taking care of your mind is just as important as taking care of your body.
Data: Martyna Trajdos / Images: Gabi Juan
Author: Szandra Szogedi