ABSTRACT
This chapter provides an overview of methods for assessing and treating anxiety disorders in sport and performance contexts. It summarizes the symptomatology, assessment strategies, and treatment approaches for generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, and performance anxiety. By starting with a comprehensive assessment, practitioners can understand the distinctive presentation for each athlete and the degree to which their anxiety disorder plays a role in the performance context. When athletes present with an anxiety disorder, it is important to consider the evidence-based treatments within the general population while taking into account the unique aspects of being an athlete. This chapter offers recommended treatment approaches in order to aide clinicians in creating an individualized treatment plan that addresses the specific diagnosis and constellation of symptoms while considering how to help the athlete perform at optimal levels in all areas of life, including their sport.
