Resilience for Life: Integrating Mental Training into sport recovery Programs
The report, "Beyond the Finish Line," funded by the Forces in Mind Trust, and released last year as part of our 10 year anniversary, evaluates the impact of the Invictus Games on the well-being of international wounded injured and sick Service personnel and Veterans. The report emphasised the benefits of adaptive sports as a tool for rehabilitation and highlighted best practices for military sport recovery programs.
One key finding included examining the role of Sport as a Platform for Personal Growth: Competitors experience significant personal growth, post-traumatic growth, and improved psychosocial well-being. Programs that incorporate resilience training, goal setting, and social support mechanisms alongside sports activities yield the best outcomes.
The Invictus Games are not just about sports; they are about building resilience and strength in every aspect of life. At the Invictus Games Foundation, we are excited to highlight the integral role of integrating resilience training, as identified through team training programs, into sport recovery programs, helping international wounded injured and sick service personnel and veterans build the mental, emotional, and psychological strength needed to thrive beyond the Games.
Resilience is a critical component of recovery, especially for those who have experienced physical and psychological injuries during service. Resilience training examined from within teams participating at the Invictus Games included mental skills coaching, goal-setting strategies, and social support frameworks designed to equip veterans with the tools they need to navigate challenges, setbacks, and changes in life.
Our goal is to create a lasting impact. The Beyond the Finish Line report, which examined participation in the Invictus Games, highlighted the benefits of resilience training extending far beyond the Games, helping WIS to overcome adversity in all areas of their lives. By providing access to online coaching via BetterUp for example, we hope to ensure that every participant, whether a competitor or not, gained valuable skills that promote long-term well-being.
But resilience training is not just about individual growth; it’s also about building a stronger community. Through Invictus Adventures and Challenges, or through team sports at an Invictus Games, the WIS community learn to rely on one another, fostering a network of support that is crucial for recovery. We encourage those taking part to share their stories, challenges, and successes, building empathy and understanding among peers.
At the Invictus Games Foundation, we know that resilience is the key to overcoming any obstacle. By increasing access to best practices, we empower WIS to face the future with confidence, knowing they have the strength and support to conquer any challenge.
To view the full report, click here.