Getting psyched up: Developing the field of Sport and Exercise Psychiatry in South Africa

Elite athletes and their entourage are exposed to intense stressors commonly experience mental health symptoms disorders. While there is limited literature on prevalence rates in a South African setting, initial data show that both current retired may these symptoms, but with low treatment rates. There need improve literacy care athletes. Athletes benefit from systematic surveillance additional screening during high-risk periods, such as injury or retirement. This commentary brings athlete into focus advocates for the inclusion of sport exercise psychiatry broader team, order close gap. We provide seven recommendations way forward Africa.