Anshel (1991) suggested that athletic personnel
(athletic trainers, crew chiefs and team physicians) should:
| • |
Clearly show concern and interest in the
student athlete
|
| • |
Be prepared to discussing ethical issues
|
| • |
Act as a communication outlet
|
| • |
Show sensitivity toward the student athlete's
mental/emotional state.
|
Show concern.
Athletic trainers in particular have many opportunities to
interact with student athletes in an informal setting, and
may often be the first to recognize physical and behavioral
changes in student athletes (Anshel, 1990; Wadler and Hainline,
1989: Rosenfeld, 1989). Team physicians can observe physical,
behavioral and mood changes in student athletes during physical
examinations, injury and illness examinations, training or
the actual competition. Athletic trainers and team physicians
can take advantage of these opportunities by communicating
their concern and act in the best interest of the health and
well being of a student athlete.
Where appropriate, discuss ethical issues
related to drug use in sport.
Athletic trainers, team physicians and crew chiefs should reinforce
a sense of responsibility and ethical concern among student
athletes.
Act as a communication outlet.
Athletic trainers, team physicians and crew chiefs frequently
have excellent opportunities to provide emotional support for
student athletes who are willing to discuss problems they may
have with substance abuse.
Be aware of the student athlete's mental
status.
Athletic trainers, team physicians and crew chiefs may often
provide significant assistance to student athletes when they
observe a noticeable deterioration in a student athlete's personality
and mood.
