THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MENTAL HEALTH AND ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract

The relationship between mental health and athletic performance has always been speculative. This review examines current research studies to provide scientific conclusions and further promote research directions. Purpose: The goal of this systematic review is to provide a concise overview with an integrated and critical synthesis of current research studies using a scientific strategy that explains mental health and its impact on athletic performance. Athletes, coaches, and professionals can gain comprehensive insights on this subject, thus assisting in interpreting this complex relationship. Method: Four databases were used to search for studies using the search terms "mental health" and "athletic performance." A total of 598 articles were initially identified, 209 studies were selected after the inclusion criteria were applied, duplicates were removed, and forty-nine research papers were included in the systematic review. Results: Results state that mental health has been found to have both positive and negative impacts on athletic performance. More studies have indicated that anxiety and stress are common mental health problems that negatively affect athletic performance. An association with psychological factors is also well documented when examining the physical activity of patients affected by mental disorders. Research results may help guide professional athletes, coaches, and sports managers to promote and sustain optimal mental health conditions and create a positive mood, which could assist in improving athletic performance. Conclusions: Mental health and athletic performance have a complex bilateral relationship. Athletes' mental status may positively or negatively influence their performance, and positive performance can likewise affect a mental health state. There is still much to discover in this area. Hence, further studies are suggested to explore this interesting and important relationship deeper