Earlier this week, I got a call from an athlete who explained in a feeble tone: ‘the funeral procession has just begun in my mind; I’m not sure how long it will be this time round”. This was the athlete’s way of explaining that she was injured again and the prognosis was indeterminable at this stage. I felt she was searching for hope and reassurance especially because of her previous injuries but I thought it best to be quiet and listen for now. She spoke some more, perhaps before I got the chance to say “everything will be alright and you’ll be back in no time at all”; perhaps before I had time to engage my professional training. I wanted to reassure her because I was feeling responsible in some way and I also felt her anguish and hopelessness.
I encouraged her to speak without preventing the flow she had begun. I simply tried to understand what it felt like for her right here, right now. I don’t think I even asked her one question in the 30 minutes we spoke on the phone. Toward the end of the conversation, she startled me when she said: “When I think back about what I’ve just been talking about I can see how sensible your advice is about coping with my injury. I know I have the skills to cope and I look forward to the challenge of recovering one day at a time”. Why was I startled? Simply because I hadn’t said anything; I certainly had not given her any advice. But I guess what she said sounded like it should have come from me rather than her. She had internalized how to be a good coach to herself. She had learned to help herself in a kind and supportive manner. We arranged to meet again after she had seen her podiatrist and physiotherapist to establish her recovery plans.
I reflect on this experience with some general advice below on how to talk to an injured athlete. Talking to an injured athlete requires empathy, patience, and a clear understanding of their emotional and physical state. Athletes often feel intense frustration and disappointment when sidelined due to injury, and these feelings can be complicated by anxiety over their recovery timeline, concerns about team dynamics, or fear of not returning to their pre-injury performance levels. Engaging effectively with an injured athlete is essential to support their mental and emotional health, as well as to keep their motivation up for recovery. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to communicate with an injured athlete, broken down into key strategies and approaches.
When an athlete is injured, they may experience a range of emotions including anger, sadness, denial, or even guilt, especially if they feel they let down their team. Instead of downplaying these feelings or rushing to make them feel better, acknowledge and validate them. Saying things like, "It's normal to feel frustrated or upset in this situation," or, "This is hard, and I understand why you're feeling this way," can be comforting. Athletes are conditioned to push through challenges, so an injury that prevents them from playing can feel like a personal failure. Validate their experience to show them it’s okay to feel what they’re feeling.
Active listening is a skill that involves giving someone your full attention and reflecting back on what they say to show that you understand. Injured athletes often just need someone to listen, rather than someone to provide solutions. Resist the urge to jump in with advice or suggestions immediately. Instead, let them express their thoughts and feelings fully. Maintain eye contact, nod, and occasionally repeat back what they say to clarify or encourage them to continue. For example, "It sounds like you're really worried about the recovery process," can help them feel understood and supported.
It’s tempting to offer platitudes like, "You’ll be back in no time!" or, "At least it’s not worse!" While these comments might seem encouraging, they can sometimes trivialize the athlete’s feelings. For an athlete, any time away from their sport can feel monumental, and comments like these may suggest that you don’t fully understand the severity of the impact. Instead, acknowledge the significance of the injury and their feelings about it. Even if the injury seems minor from an outsider’s perspective, remember that the athlete’s perception is what matters most at this time.
Most athletes are naturally driven, and when injured, they often want to "fast-track" their recovery to get back into the game. While this mindset shows commitment, it can lead to impatience and, at worst, reinjury. Gently remind them of the importance of adhering to their recovery timeline. Phrases like, "Taking it slow now will help you come back stronger," or, "Rushing might only set you back further," can encourage them to focus on long-term healing over short-term gains. If you’re in a coaching role, make it clear that you support their gradual return and prioritize their long-term health over a speedy comeback.
If you’re knowledgeable about sports injuries or rehabilitation, you may have helpful insights, but it’s essential to know your limits and avoid giving medical advice unless you're a healthcare provider. Stick to general encouragement and support. For example, you might say, "I know rest and following the doctor’s advice is going to make a big difference in your recovery," rather than offering specific recommendations that may contradict their medical advice. Redirect them to healthcare professionals for detailed guidance to ensure they receive accurate and safe information.
Injuries can feel like a halt to progress, which is incredibly discouraging for a goal-oriented person like an athlete. Encourage them to redefine their goals in alignment with their current abilities and recovery needs. For instance, rather than focusing on game performance, they could set goals for physical therapy milestones or improving their mental game. You could say, "It might help to set small recovery goals, like regaining mobility or strengthening specific muscles." This keeps them motivated and allows them to focus on aspects of progress they can control.
While injuries are undoubtedly difficult, they can sometimes serve as valuable opportunities for growth. An injured athlete may have more time to focus on aspects of their game they may have previously overlooked, such as strategy, mindfulness, or even exploring new interests outside of sports. Rather than presenting this idea too quickly, listen to their perspective first, then gently guide them toward identifying any silver linings. For instance, "This time off might be a good chance to focus on mental skills or study strategies that could help you when you return." It’s vital to approach this positively and avoid sounding overly optimistic, which could seem insensitive.
Let the athlete know that they’re not alone in this process. Offer specific ways you can support them, such as attending physical therapy sessions, assisting with mobility, or simply checking in regularly to talk. For example, "I’m here to help in any way you need, whether it’s a ride to therapy or just a quick chat," can make them feel cared for. Athletes sometimes feel isolated when injured, especially if they’re missing team events or practices, so reinforcing that you’re there for them can help bridge that gap.
For many athletes, their sport is a core part of their identity. An injury can make them feel a loss of self-worth or purpose, so it’s important to remind them of their value beyond their athletic abilities. Bring up qualities you admire in them that aren’t related to sports, like their dedication, kindness, or sense of humor. Phrases like, "Your perseverance and dedication are what make you incredible, whether on the field or off," can provide reassurance. This reminder helps shift their focus from purely athletic accomplishments to a broader sense of self.
Injury rehabilitation can be as much of a mental challenge as it is a physical one. Encourage the athlete to practice mindfulness, visualization, or any coping strategies they find effective. Some athletes find meditation helpful, while others may benefit from journaling their progress or talking with a counselor. You could suggest, "Some athletes find mental exercises or journaling helpful during recovery; it might be something to try if it feels right for you." Avoid pressuring them, but gently introduce these as options to help manage stress, anxiety, or frustration throughout their recovery journey.
Finally, regular check-ins can make a significant difference. Injured athletes often feel "out of the loop" and may worry that their absence impacts their relationships with teammates, coaches, or friends. Simple messages of encouragement, whether by text or in person, show that you’re thinking of them. Avoid only asking about their injury status; instead, inquire about their general well-being or interests unrelated to sports. This approach lets them feel included without making the injury the sole focus of your conversations.
Talking to an injured athlete requires compassion, patience, and thoughtful communication. By validating their emotions, practicing active listening, and encouraging them to focus on recovery goals, you can help alleviate some of their frustration and support their mental well-being. Remember that each athlete’s experience is unique; be receptive to their individual needs and flexible in your approach. Ultimately, providing a supportive environment can help them navigate this challenging period and come back stronger, both mentally and physically.
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