Intersection of mental health issues and Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs): a narrative review by a subgroup of the IOC consensus on REDs

Abstract

Overall athlete health is a stated priority by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), yet it can be difficult for athletes to safely balance nutritional needs, training load, recovery, social interactions, expectations and other demands. The effect of energy intake and, especially, low energy availability (LEA) on athlete mental health, is understudied. In this narrative review, we examine research that has included psychological factors and mental health variables when investigating the effect of LEA, dieting/restrictive eating and Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs), since the 2018 IOC consensus statement on REDs. Based on currently available data, early psychological indicators associated with problematic LEA are mood changes, fatigue and psychological conflict. More severe mental health outcomes associated with REDs are reduced well-being, elevated anxiety, depressive symptoms and eating disorders. We propose a psychological model that helps structure how possible risk factors (eg, body dissatisfaction, environmental demands or increased training load) and moderating (eg, gender, sport) and/or potential mediating (eg, social climate, self-esteem) factors are associated with LEA and ultimately REDs. The current scientific literature underscores the importance of including mental health factors when screening for REDs and for developing a clinical approach to address the psychological sequelae of REDs once diagnosed. An interdisciplinary perspective is recommended. Lastly, and importantly, the athlete perspective urges clinicians to not underestimate the drive for success and denial of health consequences that athletes demonstrate when pursuing their sport goals.