How to overcome the psychological trauma of injury
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The Runner's World UK Podcast
This episode is titled:
How to overcome the psychological trauma of injury
Notable Quotes
"Injury isn't just like a torn ligament or fractured bone. It's a rupture of identity, purpose, sometimes even community for athletes."
"Injury gives you an opportunity to add to how you do things, not just try and get back to where you were."
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Get More InsightsEpisode Summary
In this episode of the Runners World Podcast, hosts Rick Pearson and Ben Hobson welcome Dr. Karl Baskobie, a psychologist who specializes in the mental and emotional aspects of sports injury recovery. The discussion begins with a reflection on how injuries impact runners not just physically but also mentally and emotionally. They emphasize the lack of psychological support for injured athletes and the stigma surrounding discussing mental health in sports.
Dr. Baskobie explains how injuries are often seen merely as physical ailments, overlooking the profound emotional toll they can have. He discusses the common feelings of grief, loss of identity, and isolation that accompany injuries for many athletes. This loss can lead to feelings of sadness, frustration, or even anger, as being an athlete often defines one's self-worth. He explains that injuries can disrupt not just physical capability but also an individual's sense of purpose and community.
A critical aspect of the conversation revolves around the need for addressing mental health proactively. Injury prevention should include understanding stress and its role in injuries, with Dr. Baskobie highlighting how stress increases susceptibility to injuries. Furthermore, he advocates for fostering psychological flexibility, enabling athletes to navigate their emotional responses to injury, and develop adaptive coping strategies.
The podcast delves into how athletes can reflect on their relationship with running, recognizing the values and meanings it holds for them, especially when that capability is lost. Dr. Baskobie encourages finding alternative ways to honor those values when unable to run. He also addresses the prevalent mindset of toxic positivity and the need to allow space for difficult emotions during recovery.
Toward the end, the discussion touches on the experiences of re-injury, where the fear surrounding potential future injury can impede recovery. Dr. Baskobie stresses the importance of managing these fears and finding ways to feel safe again while training. He concludes by offering resources for runners to connect with psychological support and emphasizing the shared human experience of dealing with injury and recovery.
Dr. Baskobie explains how injuries are often seen merely as physical ailments, overlooking the profound emotional toll they can have. He discusses the common feelings of grief, loss of identity, and isolation that accompany injuries for many athletes. This loss can lead to feelings of sadness, frustration, or even anger, as being an athlete often defines one's self-worth. He explains that injuries can disrupt not just physical capability but also an individual's sense of purpose and community.
A critical aspect of the conversation revolves around the need for addressing mental health proactively. Injury prevention should include understanding stress and its role in injuries, with Dr. Baskobie highlighting how stress increases susceptibility to injuries. Furthermore, he advocates for fostering psychological flexibility, enabling athletes to navigate their emotional responses to injury, and develop adaptive coping strategies.
The podcast delves into how athletes can reflect on their relationship with running, recognizing the values and meanings it holds for them, especially when that capability is lost. Dr. Baskobie encourages finding alternative ways to honor those values when unable to run. He also addresses the prevalent mindset of toxic positivity and the need to allow space for difficult emotions during recovery.
Toward the end, the discussion touches on the experiences of re-injury, where the fear surrounding potential future injury can impede recovery. Dr. Baskobie stresses the importance of managing these fears and finding ways to feel safe again while training. He concludes by offering resources for runners to connect with psychological support and emphasizing the shared human experience of dealing with injury and recovery.
Key Takeaways
- Injury impacts athletes not only physically but also emotionally, leading to feelings of grief and loss of identity.
- Psychological flexibility is essential in coping with injury, including acknowledging emotions and developing adaptive coping strategies.
- Stress is a significant predictor of injury, and managing it proactively can help prevent injuries.
- Running can become a core part of an athlete's identity, and it's crucial to find other ways to express one's values when unable to run.
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