Is My Athlete At Risk For A Burn Out?

Does your athlete show risky behaviors (e.g., alcohol or drug use)?

Is your athlete lacking motivation?

Does your athlete show a lack of caring (i.e., not putting in the efforts needed)?

Does your athlete show a loss of pride?

Does your athlete tell you that he/she is tired or burned out?

Does your athlete show a clear decline in performance?

Does your athlete show mood changes?

Is your athlete showing a disinterest in the sports he/she’s been participating in?

Based on your answers, it’s unlikely that your athlete is at risk for a burn out. That is, of course, a big relief! Sports burn out is a serious condition and can impact your athlete’s mood, stress-coping responses, and interactions with family and friends. Kids who experience a burn out from sports may have problems eating and sleeping. To prevent a burn out, parents should do the following: create a supportive environment, plan breaks, help your athlete maintain a healthy diet, and teach your athlete to recognize the signs that he/she needs to slow down.

Based on your answers, your athlete is displaying some signs related to being at risk for a burn out. It can be difficult to detect sports burn out, but if you pay attention, you will notice the signs. A burn out will happen when an athlete can’t recover adequately from training and competition. The only treatment for burn out is rest, which is generally between 4 and 12 weeks. During this period, the athlete can do low intensity aerobic exercise just to stay active and fit. To prevent a burn out, parents should do the following: create a supportive environment, plan breaks, help your athlete maintain a healthy diet, and teach your athlete to recognize the signs that he/she needs to slow down.

Unfortunately, your athlete is displaying the signs typically seen among individuals who are at risk for a burn out. Sports burn out is a very important and serious condition to watch for. The good news is that by catching symptoms early and taking small breaks, most kids will find their enthusiasm for sports again. As a parent, it’s essential to create a caring environment that allows your athlete to get unconditional love, even if the child decides to take a break from sports. The only treatment for burn out is rest, which is generally between 4 and 12 weeks. During this period, the athlete can do low intensity aerobic exercise just to stay active and fit.