Tricks to avoid sport-related anxiety or cardiac attacks, by Aisha Musa Auyo
Sequel to the recent loss of lives
during the intense match between Nigeria and South Africa, it is pertinent to start sensitizing the public on the effects of anxiety, cardiac, and related attacks during sports and the like.
To avoid anxiety or heart attack during sports or anything that excites you, try this imagination a few hours before the game or event.
…Expect the worst in this case, even if you don’t want to. Imagine the worst-case scenario a few times in your mind, and no matter how much anxious your body becomes, let it be. Don’t resist it, and it will go away……
Anxiety is nothing but the manifestation of your deep fears, and since you keep avoiding ‘the worst case scenarios’, anxiety keeps building up. But if you have imagined it and experienced it, the reality will not come as a shock. It will be something you’ve already envisioned. Whether the game ended in your favor or not, you will have control over how your body reacts to the outcome.
This is the explanation behind the fight or flight response, which is an automatic physiological reaction to an event that is perceived as stressful or frightening. The perception of threat activates the sympathetic nervous system and triggers an acute stress response that prepares the body to fight or flee.
Sports-related anxiety and heart attacks can be influenced by various factors, and addressing them requires a multifaceted approach. And because this issue will keep coming up even after the AFCON 24, it’ll be great if we highlight the long-term approaches.
1. Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity not only improves cardiovascular health but also helps manage stress. Incorporating both aerobic and strength training exercises can contribute to overall well-being.
2. Healthy Lifestyle: Adopting a balanced and nutritious diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding excessive alcohol and tobacco use are crucial components of preventing heart-related issues.
3. Stress Management: Practice stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, or meditation. Managing stress levels is vital for overall mental and physical health.
4. Regular Health Check-ups: Periodic health check-ups help monitor blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and overall heart health. Early detection of potential issues allows for timely intervention.
5. Know Your Limits: Recognize personal physical limitations and avoid pushing yourself too hard during sports activities. Gradual progression in intensity is essential to prevent sudden stress on the cardiovascular system.
6. Medical Consultation: If individuals have pre-existing health conditions or concerns, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before engaging in intense physical activities, including sports events.
7. Fan Engagement Awareness: For spectators, emotional involvement during sports events can lead to heightened stress levels. Being aware of one’s emotional reactions and finding healthy ways to manage them is essential.
8. Emergency Preparedness: Knowing basic first aid and having access to medical facilities during sports events can be critical in case of emergencies.
9. Community Awareness: Raising awareness within communities about the risks associated with sports-related stress and the importance of preventive measures can contribute to a healthier sports culture.
10. Education:Providing education on the signs of heart attacks and the importance of seeking immediate medical attention can empower individuals to respond effectively in emergencies.
By addressing these aspects, individuals can reduce the risk of sports-related anxiety and heart attacks, promoting a safer and more enjoyable sports experience.
In summary, to reduce sports-related anxiety and potential health risks, individuals should prioritize regular exercise, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and be aware of their physical limits. Seeking medical advice and monitoring stress levels can also contribute to overall well-being.
Aisha Musa Auyo is a Doctorate researcher in Educational Psychology. A wife, a mother, a homemaker, caterer, parenting, and relationship coach. She can be reached via aishamuauyo@live.co.uk
