With the Centre announcing that mental health of the athletes will be priority at the 2024 Paris Olympics, in a first, a dedicated psychologist and psychiatrist will accompany the Indian contingent.
As part of the comprehensive medical team, Dr Divya Jain, a sports psychologist, and Dr Samir Parikh, a psychiatrist, will travel with the athletes to Paris this week. Their inclusion marks a significant shift in how mental health is perceived and treated in the realm of competitive sports.
CNN-News18 spoke to Dr Jain and Dr Parikh about their roles and the impact they hope to make.
Dr Jain emphasised the importance of mental health in achieving peak athletic performance. “This is a revolutionary step,” she said. “Athletes often face immense pressure and stress, which can affect their performance. By providing them psychological support, we can help them manage their emotions, stay focused, and ultimately perform better.”
Dr Parikh echoed these sentiments, highlighting the comprehensive approach to athlete care. “Incorporating mental health professionals into the support team is a game-changer,” he stated. “We will be working closely with the athletes to address any mental health issues, whether it’s anxiety, depression, or performance-related stress. Our goal is to ensure that they are mentally and emotionally prepared to compete at the highest level.”
Both experts underscored the significance of this initiative in breaking the stigma around mental health in sports. They believe that by openly addressing mental health concerns, athletes will feel more comfortable seeking help and discussing their struggles.
This initiative by the Indian government is expected to set a precedent for future international competitions, emphasizing the critical role of mental health in sports. As Dr Jain and Dr Parikh prepare to support the athletes in Paris, they are hopeful that their efforts will contribute to not only better performance but also the overall well-being of the athletes.