If you’re into soccer, then you may know stars like Real Madrid’s Nacho Fernández, the US Men’s National team player Jordan Morris, or Tottenham Hotspur’s Richarlison. They all have talent, drive, and ambition in common but there is another thing that links all three—they are all battling chronic diseases. Fernández was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age 12 but has enjoyed a dazzling career, winning many trophies for his team and playing for the national team. Jordan Morris has also been living with Type 1 diabetes since he was a child, while Richarlison recently revealed his struggles with depression after the 2022 World Cup. Things were so bad, says Richarlison, that he wanted to give up, but through therapy, he managed to battle his condition. “The therapist, like it or not, saved me… saved my life.” His story is a testimony to the value of getting help. Doing so not only addresses disease at the root but also gives one the required strength to embrace one’s sport with greater passion and commitment.
Obtaining the All-Clear
There are numerous chronic conditions that can impact one’s ability to play sports, some of which include cardiovascular conditions, musculoskeletal issues, metabolic disorders (like diabetes), and autoimmune diseases. One autoimmune disease, Sjogren’s Syndrome, can cause severe fatigue, which can impact qualities like endurance and performance. If you have been diagnosed with a chronic disease, talk to your doctor and discuss all the training and competitive activities your sports involve. If sports will not impact your condition negatively, your doctor will be able to advise you on the ideal frequency and intensity with which you can play.
The Important Role Played by Diet and Medication
Your doctor will also be able to advise you of the best medication or combination of treatments, taking into account your active lifestyle. For instance, David Beckham, one of the biggest soccer stars of all time, played soccer at an elite level despite having asthma. He adhered to strict nutritional and treatment regimens, managing to keep his fitness levels at an optimal level. Talk to your doctor about the benefits of seeing a clinic dietitian. The latter is a specialist who can ensure you receive the unique combination of nutrients that will support your health and performance. This is especially important if you have a condition that can affect nutrient absorption or metabolism, such as celiac disease, which damages the small intestine when gluten is consumed, leading to the malabsorption of various nutrients.
Getting Ready for Matches Away from Home
If your soccer team has frequent away games, then it pays to be prepared for medical emergencies. For instance, you can wear a medical warning dog tag, which can indicate any chronic condition you may be battling and any medications you may be allergic to. It’s also a good idea to pack extra medication, especially if you will be away for a few days. Also carry a detailed medical information card that indicates your condition, medication, and other vital information. Of course, let your coach and other team officials know of your condition and any special needs you may have.
Obtaining Psychological Support
If you play soccer regularly and you have just been diagnosed with a chronic disease, pay attention to how you are feeling and watch out for signs of stress, anxiety, or depression. While it is typical to feel a little down when you first find out you have a chronic disease, if you find that you are very sad, unmotivated, or anxious, seek help from a trained, well-reputed psychologist. Far from what you may imagine, therapy doesn’t have to be forever. Sometimes, seeing a therapist for just a few weeks is enough to help you feel more positive about life. Through techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy, your therapist can help you discover the link between your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. They can show you how to reframe negative thoughts so you feel better and find positive ways to release stress and respond to triggers.
Players the world over have shown that chronic illness does not have to stop you from playing soccer in the majority of cases. If you have just been diagnosed, start by obtaining an okay from your doctor, and follow their considerations. Consider seeing a clinical psychologist and psychological support to help you adapt to this new chapter in your life.