"Advancement in mental health: Peru includes psychologist in the Paris Paralympic Games"

The start of the XVII Paralympic Games in Paris has marked a turning point in the preparation and support of Peruvian Paralympic athletes. This event, which has become a vital platform for the visibility and inclusion of athletes with disabilities, not only celebrates the physical abilities of these competitors but also highlights the importance of mental health in sports. The participation of 13 Peruvian athletes in various disciplines demonstrates the growth of Paralympic sports in the country. However, this year, the Peruvian delegation has an innovative element: a specialized psychologist accompanying the athletes on their journey to competition. Jorge Moreno Peña, a sports psychologist from San Ignacio de Loyola University, has been appointed to this important role, underscoring the need to approach sports from a holistic perspective. The inclusion of psychological support is not a luxury but a critical necessity. The head of the Peruvian delegation, Luisa Villar Gálvez, emphasizes that psychological well-being is crucial for both athletes and coaches, who also face significant pressures. This holistic approach ensures that all aspects of the athlete's well-being are addressed, thereby facilitating the development of their maximum potential. Psychological support goes beyond mere assistance during competition. According to Moreno, mental health work should be a continuous process that begins long before athletes step onto the competitive stage. This involves understanding each athlete's personal history as well as the specific challenges they face. Athletes with disabilities may deal with a variety of emotional and physical issues that require specialized attention. Psychological preparation must be an integral complement to physical, technical, and nutritional training. One of the central aspects of psychological support is creating a safe space for athletes to express their concerns and manage personal situations that may interfere with their performance. The combination of personal life and sports can be complex, and having a space to explore these tensions is essential for maintaining emotional balance. Sports psychology not only addresses disorders but also seeks to optimize performance by identifying and correcting disruptive factors. The role of the coach is equally crucial in the athlete's mental health. A coach's ability to identify early warning signs in an athlete's behavior and mood can make a significant difference. For this reason, they are encouraged to receive basic training in sports psychology, enabling them to manage pressure effectively and provide comprehensive support to athletes. Collaborative work between the psychologist and coaches is fundamental in creating a healthy and positive training environment. The experiences shared by athletes reflect the importance of this approach. Dunia Felices, a Paralympic swimmer, highlights how psychological tools have been key to maintaining her focus on the sport. According to her, having psychological support allows her to be aware of her emotional well-being, which translates into better performance. Mental preparation must go hand in hand with physical preparation, ensuring that the mind is in sync with the body. The challenges faced by Paralympic athletes are unique and often require specific adaptations in psychological preparation. The inability to manage anxiety and external pressure can have serious consequences on performance. Early intervention and strengthening emotional autonomy are essential to help athletes navigate these challenges, allowing them to concentrate on their performance during competition without being distracted by external worries. During this competition phase, psychological support focuses on three key areas: anxiety management, external pressure, and self-acceptance. Athletes are trained to face unrealistic expectations and to maintain focus on their performance. This includes techniques for self-talk and emotional acceptance, which enable them to effectively manage their emotions and personal responsibilities. The arrival of psychological support at the Paralympic Games represents a significant advancement in the attention offered to athletes with disabilities. The personalization of interventions and the use of accessible technologies ensure that each athlete receives the necessary support to maximize their potential. Mental health is no longer a secondary aspect but a fundamental piece in the machinery of sports success. In conclusion, the inclusion of a sports psychologist in the Peruvian delegation for the Paralympic Games not only marks a milestone in the preparation of these athletes but also establishes a model to follow for future competitions. Mental health and sports performance are interrelated, and it is imperative that they receive the attention they deserve. As these athletes strive to achieve their dreams in Paris, the world observes not only their physical prowess but also the emotional strength that drives them forward.