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No pain, no gain. Athletes get into sports without wanting to get an injury. Unfortunately, injury is part of an athlete's experience. And while physical treatment, medication, and rest are all crucial to recovery, mental health also plays a huge role.

(Photo : Serghei Trofimov / Unsplash)

The Psychological Effects of Injury

Mental health and physical injury are closely linked. That is why people who have gone through tremendous physical strain or any injury have the tendency to undergo post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD. 

Some people, like athletes, are used to having high mobility. So, when they get injured, it is particularly difficult to cope with a somewhat more sedentary lifestyle. 

It leads to them having a difficult time expressing how they feel and socializing with family and friends. Some, especially those who cannot fully recover, end up having a pessimistic outlook or even getting depressed.

How to Mentally Recover From an Injury

The psychological effects of injuries are all understandable, but that does not equate to the end of the line. It is important to note that recovery includes both physical and mental treatment. 

Thus, it is recommended to meet with a sports psychologist to understand your treatment options. One of the treatment options is cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, wherein the patient is allowed to talk while the psychologist listens. Afterward, they will both identify potential problems and come up with a solution. 

Another method is to implement targeted relaxation strategies, such as guided imagery, to help reduce muscle strain while mentally focusing on relaxation.

Undoubtedly, injuries are often accompanied by mental stress, anxiety, and depression. Thankfully, with today's advances in the field of psychology, more comprehensive treatment methods are continuously utilized and improved.