Evaluating workforce needs: an investigation of healthcare professionals' attitudes, beliefs and preparedness towards the management of Para athlete mental health at the Tokyo 2020 and Beijing 2022 Paralympic Games

Objectives: To examine healthcare professionals (HCPs) attitudes, beliefs and preparedness towards the management of Para athlete mental health during the Tokyo 2020 and Beijing 2022 Paralympic Games. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted. National Paralympic Committee's HCPs (n=857) working at the Tokyo 2020 and Beijing 2022 Paralympic Games were invited to respond to an anonymous online survey regarding the management of Para athlete mental health in their team. Data were analysed using descriptive frequency statistics. Results: The survey was completed by 256 HCPs (30% of respondents). Most HCPs agreed that mental health was a concern in Para athletes (n=210; 82%). However, half (n=122; 48%) agreed that they did not screen Para athletes for mental health symptoms, and half (n=130; 51%) agreed that there was increased stigma around disclosure of mental health symptoms among Para athletes, compared with athletes without disability. Most HCPs (n=221; 86%) agreed they wanted to improve their knowledge and skills surrounding athlete mental healthcare. Culturally sensitivite, non-discriminatory and contextual factors were highlighted as desired areas of education for HCPs and active information dissemination for Para athletes. Conclusion: HCPs working at the Paralympic Games considered Para athlete mental healthcare important and reported perceived stigma, yet indicated low rates of mental health screening. Most respondents expressed the need for mental health education. Culturally sensitive training and active education strategies should be implemented to optimally manage Para athlete mental health.