Any athlete facing the death of a close friend or loved one encounters many obstacles to gain emotional healing and regain a sense of “normalcy”. There are several steps throughout the grief process, but even after healing occurs, sadness can linger for a longer period of time from mourning the void in their life created by the loss of the loved one. Understanding this process and consciously seeking a method to find both hope and encouragement for the future is a great indicator of establishing mental toughness both in life and on the court.
Sports psychology for basketball promotes the strengthening of focus and eliminating outside negative distractors. Often the practicing in the gym or playing a basketball game offers an escape from the darkness of grief, as long as they can maintain focus on the present. The athlete gains a time for focus to be on a physical task, and not on the emotions in the outside world. The physical activity associated with basketball also releases endorphins to the brain which promotes a more positive mood. It is understandable if focus is weakened during this traumatic time, but the mentally tough athlete will recognize this as a normal component of grief, and also work to gradually build focus to regain emotional strength.
Another aspect the mental game of basketball conveys through the grief process is the camaraderie shared between teammates. It is more difficult for an athlete to completely withdraw in their sorrow when they are surrounded by others, even if the others are hurting just as badly. Sharing this sadness with others allows for the negative emotions to vent, rather than suppressing them to cause later, more detrimental emotional issues. It can also be a venue for a team member to share something positive about the person mourned, and keep focus on the positive memories shared, not the extreme void from their loss.
The team atmosphere is powerful for players to find hope for their future, and regain their emotional and mental toughness. When one teammate is feeling down, another can offer necessary encouragement and refocus their thoughts on a positive memory. Coaches also model the normal emotions of grief, and give their players an understanding of what normal coping looks like. Finally, it is important for players to know they can seek help outside the team with either a school counselor or trusted adult if their sadness becomes overwhelming. The most imperative step toward recovery is the understanding that it does not need to occur alone as an individual.
The journey to emotional healing after the loss of a close friend or love one is difficult and different for every individual. The time it takes for each individual stage also varies by individual, and cannot be dictated by anyone. The best method to navigate and eventually find hope for the future is to understand the process and surround yourself with people who offer positive encouragement. It takes time and effort for complete recovery, but it is important to know that things will eventually get better.
To Parkwood and the family of HS.
May God bless you all and give you the strength you need.
