The hidden currents of Canadian sport: A deep dive with SIRC’s new podcast
In the world of sports, we often celebrate the visible: the gold medals, the game-winning goals, the perfect routines executed under the bright lights of competition. But beneath the surface of every athletic performance lies a complex web of forces—psychological, structural, and cultural—that shape an athlete’s journey long before they ever step into competition. This…
Concussions and mental health
A recent study exploring the relationship between concussion and poor mental health found that youth with pre-existing mental health challenges were more likely to experience more emotional symptoms, like sadness, and a longer recovery time. Being aware of this increased risk and addressing mental health challenges early on in the recovery is crucial for supporting…
Elite athletes and problem gambling
Elite athletes face unique mental health challenges, including a higher risk of problem gambling and gaming disorder, particularly among males. Tackling these behavioural addictions is crucial to safeguarding their wellbeing.
Early sport participation boosts kids’ wellbeing and academic success
Participating in organized sport during early childhood can boost Canadian students’ mental well-being and academic success. A study of nearly 2,000 children in Quebec found that regular physical activity from ages 6 to 10 led to better emotional health, school performance, and healthier lifestyle choices by adolescence. Early involvement in sport fosters long-term development and…
Beyond the game: The power of positive psychology in sport
In the world of elite sports, the focus has traditionally been on performance metrics, rigorous training regimens, and strategies for winning. But what if the secret to sustained success lies not just in physical prowess, but in the mind? Enter positive psychology, a field that seeks to unlock human potential by fostering mental resilience, well-being,…
Preventing eating disorders among young athletes
Introduction Adolescence is a pivotal stage marked by increased vulnerability to the development of body image concerns, disordered eating, and eating disorders. For adolescents involved in sport, where they may face pressure to conform to a certain body type to progress and achieve success, the risk may be even more pronounced. Consider some of the…
Understanding and Coping Among Adolescent Athletes
Tailoring sport psychology services for masters athletes
Research focused on mental performance consultants shows that adult-oriented sport psychology services can be an important support for Masters athletes. Interviews with 10 Canadian professionals revealed the importance of tailoring content to performance readiness, balancing priorities, preserving enjoyment, and addressing age-related challenges.
Chronic alcohol misuse and sport performance
Chronic alcohol misuse causes muscle weakness and atrophy, while problematic drinking impairs muscle function and athletic performance. This study shows that alcohol consumption hinders muscle recovery and function, potentially reducing sport performance, especially in men.
The Unspoken Battle: How Body Image Shapes Sport Performance
For athletes, sport is about pushing limits of skill, strength, and endurance. But what happens when the greatest challenge isn’t physical at all? For many, especially young athletes, the most persistent struggle exists in their own minds: body image. Dr. Catherine Sabiston, a professor in the Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education at the University…