What is typically the 1st stage of an athlete's psychological response to injury?

The first stage of an athlete's psychological response to injury is typically denial. This stage reflects a common psychological reaction where the individual struggles to accept the reality of the injury. Athletes may experience disbelief regarding the severity of the injury or may minimize its impact, often thinking that they can quickly get back to their normal training and competition. This denial can serve as a defense mechanism, allowing them to temporarily avoid the emotional pain associated with the injury and its consequences on their athletic career.

In denial, athletes may ignore their body's signals and potential limitations, which can sometimes lead to further injury if they attempt to return to play too soon. The denial stage is crucial as it is often the starting point of the overall rehabilitation process, and recognizing it can help coaches, medical staff, and the athletes themselves to understand and navigate the subsequent stages of psychological adjustment.