Shiffrin, fellow ski racers, clear mental hurdles after traumatic injury at own speed

Mikaela Shiffrin, the two-time Olympic champion, is making a remarkable comeback from a serious crash that left her with post-traumatic stress disorder. While she has shown her physical prowess by winning gold in the team combined event at the world championships in Austria, there is still work to be done on a mental level.

Shiffrin made the difficult decision to sit out of the giant slalom event at the world championships, two days after her victory. The crash that occurred during a giant slalom race in Vermont caused severe trauma to her oblique muscles, leading to her PTSD. Psychotherapist Ben Foodman, who has worked with elite athletes in various sports, explains that traumatic events can shut down parts of the brain and create confusion and fear.

Italian Olympic champion Sofia Goggia can relate to Shiffrin’s experience, as she struggled with anxiety upon returning from a serious knee injury. Overcoming such mental hurdles is a unique journey for each athlete, and there is no set timeline for recovery.

Shiffrin’s return to on-snow training brought back memories of her crash, but she pushed through with the hope of overcoming her fear. However, she soon realized that it was not as simple as she had hoped, as skiing involves a multitude of variables that can trigger anxiety and hesitation.

Foodman compares the brain’s complexity to filling eight Olympic-sized swimming pools with grains of sand, with each grain representing a connection. Athletes like Shiffrin and Breezy Johnson, who have both faced challenging injuries, must navigate the stress of their sport while managing their mental health.

Former ski racer Ted Ligety and Lindsey Vonn offer insights into their experiences with injury and recovery, emphasizing the importance of finding a balance between protecting oneself and skiing freely. Each athlete has their unique process for overcoming crashes and setbacks, with the goal of becoming comfortable with discomfort.

As Shiffrin continues her journey towards full recovery, she is supported by her team and professionals like Foodman, who encourage athletes to fully embrace their emotions and work through their trauma. By acknowledging their feelings and exploring their depths, athletes can find healing and resilience in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, Shiffrin’s story serves as a reminder of the mental challenges that athletes face in addition to their physical feats. By prioritizing mental health and seeking support, athletes can overcome trauma and continue to excel in their sport.