Currently, the framework for elite athletes is insufficient in the scope it covers. According to Purcell et al., a comprehensive framework solves the gaps in the current models (2019). The existing literature shows that these current frameworks are based on are under-researched. This inadequacy in research forms the basis for the gaps in the current models of diagnosis and treatment of elite athletes’ issues. It is not only athletes in elite sports who are vulnerable to problems. The competitive nature of elite sports means that coaches and other support staff are also at risk of mental health-related issues. Therefore, the proposed framework has a broad scope and is applicable in non-elite sporting environments with limited resources.
The first key point is the recognition that there is a lack of a comprehensive framework to identify and cater to problems for elite athletes. Purcell et al. (2019) state that research in the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC’s) has uncovered that there is little scholarly and service-level attention to the mental health of elite athletes.
The second key point is the proposal of a comprehensive framework that promotes, identifies, engages, and recognizes risk factors to elite athletes. The competitive nature of elite sports exposes athletes to various risk factors. Sleep disorders, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, and anxiety are elite athletes’ risk factors (Purcell et al., 2019).
The final key point is the recognition that there exist various states and career stages. These variations mean the proposed framework needs to be both responsive and adaptive. According to Purcell et al. (2019), the risk factor of issues changes depending on the sporting environment or ecology. Therefore, the proposed framework needs to adapt to these new environments.
Reference
Purcell, R., Gwyther, K., & Rice, S. M. (2019). Mental health in elite athletes: Increased awareness requires an early intervention framework to respond to athlete needs. Sports Medicine – Open, 5(1). Web.