Performance Anxiety – Panic Attack
Beats The Excellence

Performance Anxiety – Panic Attack Beats The Excellence

 Simona Halep,  the former world NO. 1 and current No. 19, was upset in the second round of the 2022 French Open by Chinese qualifier Zheng Qinwen. After the match, Halep revealed that she had suffered a Panic Attack during the match.

Halep said she “lost it” and couldn’t focus during the match. “After the match, was pretty tough. But now I’m good. I have recovered and I will learn from this episode,” she said. “Nothing like dangerous, in my opinion, but it happened. So it’s good that now I can smile.

It’s very admirable that Halep is taking this experience in stride and using it as a learning opportunity. Champions are Learning Machine. She’s a champion on and off the court. Simona Halep is one of the top tennis players in the world, and she proved her mettle once again at Roland Garros this year. Halep is known for her calm composed demeanor on the court,

Halep added that she had been feeling “a little bit tight” before the match, but she did not want to use that as an excuse for her loss. “It’s not an excuse,” she said, “I have to work harder mentally.”

Performance Anxiety – Panic Attack Beats The Excellence

If you are struggling with anxiety, know that you are not alone. It’s normal to feel nervous before a competition. Competition anxiety is a type of performance anxiety or social anxiety. Many people feel this type of anxiety before an important test or event. For some people, the anxiety is so intense that it interferes with their ability to perform. This is called sports anxiety or performance anxiety.

Anxiety disorders are common among athletes. Studies have found that as many as 35% of athletes suffer from some form of anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders can lead to poor performance, injuries, and burnout.

What causes sports anxiety?

Sports anxiety is a type of performance anxiety. It is a common issue among athletes, it is not well-understood. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, personality, past experiences, the fear of failing, the pressure to perform well to meet high expectation, over thinking, and the fear of injury can trigger anxiety in players and athletes.

What are the signs of sports anxiety?

The signs of sports anxiety can vary from person to person. Some people may experience physical symptoms, such as a rapid heartbeat, sweating, and shaking. Others may experience mental symptoms, such as negative thinking, fear, feelings of nervousness and overwhelming anxiety.

How to handle a Panic Attack/Sports Anxiety?

If you are experiencing a panic attack, there are a few things you can do to help yourself. First, try to stay calm. Second, focus on your breathing. Taking slow, deep breaths can help to slow down your heart rate and calm your nerves. Third, remove yourself from the situation if possible. If you’re in the middle of a competition, take a break if you can. If you’re at home, try to relax in a quiet place. Finally, remember that panic attacks are temporary and that will eventually end. 

What are remedies for sports anxiety? 

There are a number of things you can do to manage sports anxiety. These include deep breathing, slow diaphragmatic breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, visualization, and self-talk.

Sports anxiety is treatable. Anxiety disorders are treated by a combination of psychiatric medications and psychotherapy. In some cases, other treatments such as relaxation techniques, biofeedback, and acupuncture is also helpful.  A number of different interventions, including cognitive-behavioral therapy is shown to be effective in managing sports anxiety. Medication may also be used in some cases. If you are an athlete who is struggling with anxiety, it is important to seek help form a mental health professional.There is no shame in admitting that you need help.  With treatment, you can learn to manage your anxiety and get back to enjoying your sport and living a full and happy life

Lesson to learn – love what you are doing so you can focus on what is important, work on your attitude, be kind to yourself, be calm, do not criticize yourself, critique is welcomed.