Psychological First Aid in Sports

Psychological First Aid (PFA) in sports is a supportive approach used to help athletes cope with stress, trauma, or emotional distress after challenging or unexpected events. It involves establishing a sense of safety, calming the individual, and providing practical support and information. PFA aims to reduce feelings of confusion or helplessness, promote adaptive coping, and facilitate recovery. Trained coaches or staff offer empathetic listening, respect personal boundaries, and connect athletes with additional mental health resources if needed. Its goal is to foster resilience and emotional well-being, helping athletes regain confidence and focus on their performance and health.