Dr. Marc Felizzi: Unpacking Mental Health in Sports from Multiple Angles
There's more to the athlete than what we see on the playing surface... Look at the person, not just in their sport, but again the other aspects of what that athlete is and what that individual is.
When you think about athletes, it's easy to focus on their physical prowess, but what about their mental health? In this episode of Courtside Wellness, host Brandon St.Croix sits down with Dr. Marc Felizzi, an Associate Professor at Millersville University of Pennsylvania and a Mental Health provider for both current and retired USA Olympic athletes. They dive into the complexities of mental health in sports, offering a fresh perspective that goes beyond the playing field. Dr.
Felizzi brings a wealth of experience from his roles as a coach, social worker, and therapist. He stresses the importance of a holistic approach to athlete well-being, advocating for dual degree programs that combine social work with sports management or coaching. This, he believes, would better equip social workers to understand the unique challenges athletes face, from organizational pressures to budgeting concerns. The conversation also tackles the stigma surrounding mental health in sports.
Athletes often feel the need to maintain a tough exterior, making it difficult to seek help. Dr. Felizzi discusses how coaches can create a supportive environment that prioritizes mental health alongside physical training. He emphasizes looking at athletes as whole individuals, considering factors like family, relationships, and finances that impact their mental well-being. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone involved in sports—whether you're an athlete, coach, or just a fan. Dr.
Felizzi's unique perspective offers valuable lessons on how to support athletes not just as players, but as people.