Prevalence and Type of Psychopathology in Ultra Endurance Athletes

In this episode of the TrainingPeaks CoachCast, host Dirk Friel interviews Jill Colangelo, a researcher focusing on mental health in endurance athletes. Colangelo shares insights from her ultra endurance experiences, sports psychiatry work and research, highlighting the higher prevalence of mental illness among ultra endurance athletes. 

She discusses the need for recognition and treatment of exercise addiction, as well as the importance of balancing athletic pursuits with a fulfilling life outside of sports. Colangelo also delves into overtraining syndrome, its symptoms and the challenges in diagnosing it. Offering practical solutions for maintaining physical and mental well-being, she stresses the role of coaches in promoting rest, nutrition and mindful training. 

Tune in for an eye-opening discussion on mental health in the endurance sports community.