Tips to Stop Feeling Isolated After Sports
By: Misty Buck, Athlete Mental Health Coach and Contributor to HOFH
After sports, most retired athletes deal with an onslaught of issues as they transition into the next phase of their lives. One of the hardest and most common obstacles is a feeling of isolation. With the sudden loss of locker-room camaraderie coupled with feeling alone in your experience and a lack of support, you might struggle with an overwhelming sense of loneliness.
The unique experience of being a high-level athlete is often well supported during your playing days, however, upon retirement, you might feel completely lost. Suddenly, the journey of being a player on a team has come to an end, and unfortunately, there is no transition plan or team in place to prepare you for the changes ahead. You’re abruptly left on your own.
If this sounds familiar, you’re one of the majority of athletes who struggle with feeling isolated in your life after sports. With no set schedules, coaches, teammates, and structure in place, it can feel extremely lonely and confusing. Things that you feel like you should know how to do—like make a doctor’s appointment—are tasks that are unfamiliar to you, yet something that everyone else around you seems to do with ease. It can be frustrating as you try to find your way as the world continues to move on.
What to do if you feel isolated in your life after sports
If you’re feeling alone in your transition after sports, the good news is that there are resources available to help you. You certainly don’t have to go through the process alone. Whether you choose to join community groups or to go to someone for confidential help, there are options available to you.
1. Look for support groups.
From LinkedIn to Facebook and beyond, there are support groups available to athletes just like yourself. They are often free to join. There are also programs that athletes can register for. One such program is called Postseason and it was developed by former NFL player Jelani Jenkins to help you connect with other athletes and take workshops to help you develop the skills and direction to succeed in the next phase of your life.
2. Talk to someone who gets it.
In addition to support groups, other important resources are therapists, counselors, and coaches. These are individuals who will hold a space for you to work through your problems in a one-on-one confidential environment. For example, as a coach, my mantra is to provide a Safe Space for Courageous Conversations.
3. Read and listen.
Many former athletes have written books or started podcasts to share their experiences in life after sports as well as tools and solutions. Although reading a book or listening to a podcast may not solve the issue of a personal connection, it can serve as a reminder that you’re not alone in your experience while also providing solutions you may not have previously considered.
4. Keep searching.
There are a ton of resources available to athletes. While it may be a frustrating new reality to transition from having a team telling you what to do and when to do it, you can be successful on your own. Keep asking for support and look for a community or resource until you find the right fit for you.
If you are struggling with your mental health in the transition into life after sports, please reach out to the Hall of Fame Health (HOFH). From recovery centers to providers like therapists and coaches, HOFH has the resources to help you find your next best step. The organization aims to ensure consistent high-quality care, customized for athletes, their loved ones, and beyond. If you or your loved one needs assistance, please reach out to the HOFH concierge service at (866) 404-HOFH. Payment options include discounted self-pay rates, insurance, and financial assistance through Fund Recovery.
If you are experiencing a mental health emergency or require emergency assistance, please call the HOFH Crisis Line at 866-901-1245 or call 911 or head to your nearest local emergency room.