‘It’s a Shame’ – Novak Djokovic Opens Up About an ‘Essential’ Reality as a Pressing Issue Continues to Wreak Havoc in the Minds of Professional Athletes

It is completely fine to ask for help when you need it. This is the message that the legendary Novak Djokovic wants to send to everyone. The World No.1 recently picked a very touchy subject to speak about. Novak’s words were well chosen, and so was the message. It is not often that athletes open up when talking about health. However, Novak knows better. 

Djokovic has been vocal about his thoughts since forever. He is at a spot where whatever he says will be taken seriously. Which is why he often speaks about important things to help others. 

Novak Djokovic takes mental health and trauma recovery very seriously 

Novak Djokovic and his wife, Jelena, recently showed up for a panel discussion with Dr. Gabor Mate. The subject of this discussion was trauma. After the discussion, Novak faced many questions. However, a question by BLIC about his insecurities and trauma prompted the Serb to say:

“In sports, we all have fears, and whoever says they don’t, isn’t telling the truth. It’s just a question of how you deal with it and how intense that emotion is, how much it holds you back and prevents you from performing psychophysically in the best possible way. There are different techniques and ways that this intensity can be identified, and some things are so obvious that you don’t need someone else to point them out to you, you feel that you are paralyzed, and at that moment it is very important to communicate.”

Djokovic, as always, started dropping truth bombs right off the bat. He highlighted the universal presence of fear among athletes. He further explained how those who say they are not afraid are keeping the truth to themselves and emphasized that the key lies in how athletes manage and handle their fears. Djokovic suggests that recognizing and acknowledging the intensity of this fear is essential. However, at times, it’s evident when it paralyzes you and holds you back from giving your best.

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Djokovic advises that in such moments communicating those issues is the best option. However, there is an important role of trust in this whole process as well. 

Djokovic’s advice for every athlete

Trauma is hard to deal with. It doesn’t matter how strong someone is. The mind is a powerful tool, but it is quite prone to these issues. This is why Djokovic deemed this issue worthy enough to be talked about with concern.

“It is important to share what is happening inside with you, whether with people in the profession, parents, close people, and whom you trust, that is what is important, surround yourself with those who will not discourage you and make fun of what you are going through, but will be your support and a shoulder to lean on when needed. In sports, it is unexpected to talk about it, it is an expression of weakness and vulnerability. Today, it’s a shame to be vulnerable. This is not the case for me, I often talk about it. Help is essential.”

His primal advice is to surround yourself with the most trustworthy people. As per the star, it could be anyone you think has your back. Djokovic further criticizes the sports industry as a whole. He sheds light on how talking about your feelings is looked at with condescending eyes. However, the Serb is not afraid of those judgments.

This was a great initiative by the tennis superstar. He has the means available to highlight trivial issues. To his credit, Djokovic is doing that with all sincerity.

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