Dr. Alex Auerbach: Elevating Athlete Wellness Beyond the Game
Helping people work on managing and directing their thinking, feeling, physiology, attention, you know, I think those are all critical.
Imagine being at the top of your game, only to realize that the mental pressures are just as intense as the physical ones. In this compelling episode of 'Courtside Wellness', host Brandon St.Croix sits down with Dr. Alex Auerbach, the Senior Director of Player Development and Wellness for the Toronto Raptors. Dr. Auerbach, who has a rich background working with athletes in the NCAA, NFL, and MLB, shares his unique approach to mental health in sports.
He dives into how managing one's thoughts, emotions, and physical state can drastically improve performance and overall well-being. Dr. Auerbach discusses the NBA's proactive steps to break the stigma around mental health, particularly highlighting the league's efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasizes the crucial role of rest and recovery, advocating for practices like sleep, meditation, and yoga as essential tools for long-term athlete wellness. But it's not just about the athletes. Dr.
Auerbach believes coaches play a pivotal role in promoting mental health, urging them to see themselves as performers too. His podcast, 'Unfair Advantage', and its accompanying newsletter aim to equip coaches with high-performance strategies to foster a healthier sport community. Whether you're an athlete, coach, or sports enthusiast, this episode offers a treasure trove of insights into the often-overlooked mental aspects of sports. Dr.
Auerbach's holistic view on athlete wellness makes this conversation a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of sports and mental health.