ABSTRACT
In this section, the authors address the counterpart of mental health: mental illness. Therefore, important mental disorders in the context of elite sport are discussed. Specifically, the chapters focus on depression, eating disorders and body appearance concerns, addiction disorders, cognitive and executive function, personality disorders, and anxiety disorders. Because bridging the science and practice of sport psychology is an important concept, the chapter authors review and scrutinise relevant research and theories that attempt to identify and explain the relationship between underlying mechanisms of the various disorders and their impact on athletic performance and quality of life, especially at the elite levels. When available, the prevalence rates of these disorders and associated health issues in athletes are highlighted. Through case examples and anecdotal evidence, the authors also examine the psychological benefits and potential negative consequences regarding the demands of performing in high-level sporting environments. In addition, issues related to recognition, assessment, prevention, and treatment are discussed. The chapter authors also discuss potential implications for athletes and their support system and provide recommendations for how today's sport psychology professionals and other important sport personnel can work together with members of the community to advance the understanding and recognition of athletes’ risk and possible ways to help prevent negative incidents to promote quality of life during and after sport.
