AIS expand mental health support for elite athletes

The Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) have expanded their support for athletes’ mental health through their Mental Health Referral Network.

The clinical psychology support offered by AIS through the Mental Health Referral Network provides NSW Institute of Sport athletes with access to AIS-endorsed clinical psychologists across the country.

It is now offered to all NSWIS athletes, after previously being solely for Podium level athletes.

Elite athletes with mental health concerns are encouraged to call the service for a private discussion about what is the best way to get support.

A Mental Health Advisor will discuss your concerns and refer you, or the athlete you are referring to the most suitable psychologist or mental health practitioner.

Friends, family, sporting organisations, general practitioners and allied health professionals can also refer athletes to the service using the contact details below.

Phone: 02 6214 1130 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm AEST)
Email: mentalhealth@sportaus.gov.au

It’s important to note that the Mental Health Referral Network is not an emergency call service. If you are concerned about the immediate safety or wellbeing of yourself or an athlete, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. If life is in danger, call 000 immediately.

This clinical psychology support provided by the AIS differs from the performance psychology service which the NSW Institute of Sport focus on providing to athletes. The expert team of Performance Psychologists at the NSWIS aim to:

• Maximise thinking under pressure
• Help to eliminate distractions during high pressure situations
• Assist athletes to generate a road map to increase your consistency and confidence