Signs & Symptoms of Anxiety in Sports

Sports performance anxiety is a condition where an athlete experiences panic when it is time to perform in public. It is a type of social anxiety disorder that can affect the way an athlete reacts to the stress of competition and then consequently performs below his ability. While a certain amount of anxiety can propel an athlete to perform better, an excess of anxiety can be debilitating. Sports psychology studies and research identify the signs and symptoms of sports performance anxiety and develop methods for athletes to deal with the condition in positive ways.

Physical Symptoms

• When anxiety strikes an athlete, the body reacts with a "fight or flight" reaction that leads to obvious physical symptoms. Symptoms include excessive sweating and urinating, nausea, facial tics, insomnia, restlessness and muscle aches as a result of tension, according to Peak Performance Online. Dizziness, rapid heartbeat, fatigue and sexual problems also are common physical symptoms. Other less frequent physical reactions to sports performance anxiety include breathlessness or heavy breathing, dry mouth and blurred vision.

Mental Symptoms

• A high level of sports performance anxiety can affect the mental state of an athlete, enough so that he may not make decisions that he normally would in a less stressed state. The athlete may be unable to concentrate on tasks and feel confused or flighty, according to the website MedlinePlus. Other mental symptoms of anxiety include negative thinking, conviction of failure, indecision, unhappiness or the inability to follow directions. If left untreated, these mental symptoms can lead to depression.

Behavioral Symptoms

• Sports performance anxiety results in symptomatic behaviors in athletes, including restlessness, avoiding games or practices, indulging in phantom illnesses, biting fingernails or tapping fingers, avoiding contact and intentionally failing at attempts. According to Peak Performance Online, sports performance anxiety may lead to unhealthy behaviors such as alcohol and drug abuse or overeating.