Behind the medals and achievements, many face a serious challenge-such as eating disorder and unhealthy relationships with food.This is due to the maintaining of certain weight,perfectionism,No pain and No gain culture and high performance expectations.
In studies shows that nearly 45% of female athletes and 19% of male athletes experienced disorder eating behaviour.But,more then 95% of athelets do not seek treatment.
Some shared their struggles as the reminding us that athletes are human too.
Eating disorder can lead to
Increased injuries
Anxiety and depression
Decreased performance over time
What can help
Early awareness
Education for coaches and families
Multidisciplinary support
Finally,Athletes are not machines.They are humans with emotions,pressure and vulnerabilities.