It's always inspiring or invigorating to observe an athlete running like a fierce cheetah or performing any other act like a gorgeous "beast". That's the physical side of being an athlete. And we definitely aspire to at least "drag" or "pull" ourselves to that limit, honestly if not in actuality, but in our day dreams.
But have we ever tried to probe a little deeper to find out what goes on inside a sportsman's mind? Dr. Allan Currie, a athlete-turned psychiatrist and a clinical lecturer for the Assertive Outreach Team, Northumberland Tyne and Wear NHS Trust, has suggested that sportsmen and sportswomen may have mental issues as well and that too, in the form of eating disorder.
Athletes are thought to be the epitome of fitness and are known for the best dietary practices. And this finding or remark may try to emphasize that darkness prevails right at the base of a brightly lit lamp. The consultant suggested that athletes become vulnerable to eating disorders like anoxeria and bulimia in their attempt to put greater attention to their diet and weight.
But these disorders are likely to stay "undercover" with athletes trying to hide them like any other ordinary guy. Moreover, the outer lean appearance of the athletes also acts as a "sheath" for the mental health issue.
Dr. Currie has pointed out the lack of support in case an athlete faces some mental health problems. He stated that a ligament injury of an athlete is more likely to be attended with a lot of care and support, but there is practically no one to take any action to cater to this concern.
The psychiatrist mentioned about some research findings which claimed that the eating disorders in sportsmen is around 8 percent and it is 16 times higher than the rate existing among men, who are not athletes. The rate is 20 percent among female athletes and it is double than the existing rate among the non-athlete females.
The psychiatrist reminded that the sports world needs healthy athletes, both from a physical and a mental point of view. He has suggested that 2012 Olympics should pay a bit of attention to mental health of athletes apart from focusing on their physical fitness level.
Dr. Currie's judgment may lead us to think that the "proud" showcasing of trophies and medals by the winners may not last for a long term if eating disorders or other mental issues find a nest in the inner cores of an athlete's heart. Mind and body are tied together and what takes birth in the former may also affect the latter.
