It’s the worst kind of news an athlete can hear: you’re injured and need to take time for your body to heal. It could be a minor strain, or a full blown tear of a muscle, tendon, or ligament. I had strained my Achilles’ tendon and it was during one of the worst moments of my life. So much anxiety on when I was going to run again. I didn’t even know if I would be the same athlete once I returned. Here are some tips that you can use if you ever have an injury and need help mentally recovering.
Injuries are Like a Marathon
You might be thinking, “how long will it take to get back on the field?” It will completely depend on the kind of injury that you may have and how quickly your body can heal. It can be very daunting to think about. Similarly to a marathon, the more you think about how long it will take to get to the finish line. However, there are some tactics you can use to get you through it all. There are other things that you can do.
What am I Supposed to Think About?
How do you stay motivated when you’re injured? What are some strategies for staying focused while injured? While it will be hard to stay motivated when healing from an injury, there are some things to consider:
- Don’t rush things: rushing things can set you back in your recovery. Just allow your body to do its thing.
- Staying in the present moment: think about where you are currently in your recovery. Not tomorrow, not yesterday, but today.
- Every Day Towards Improvement is a Win: it might have been grueling, but you made it to the end of the day. That is a win. Let the wins stack on each other.
When Returning Can be Scary
So you made it all the way through physical therapy. But, now it’s time to play again. And now you’re nervous about playing again. Now what do you do? You may have a part of you that is excited, but another part that is scared
- Talk to Your Parts in Your Head: get curious and learn what your parts want to accomplish.
- Thank Your Parts: show appreciation for wanting to keep you safe. And then tell them that they can protect you in the past, but they don’t need to protect you in the present or the future.
Review
- Returning to the field can be scary
- Allow your body to heal naturally and at its own pace
- Get to know your parts and figure out why they are doing what they do
Chris Burgenson is a licensed counselor in Maryland who is based in Frederick. Chris specializes in overcoming performance anxiety, improving confidence in athletes, and dealing with the pressures of being an athlete. Besides working with athletes, he also works with teen and adult clients who struggle with ADHD and anxiety. Need help with your mental health? Book a consultation here.
Until Next Time
