IOC to introduce ‘Mentally Fit Helpline’ for athletes

Tokyo, July 18: The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has set up a 24-hour helpline, called ‘Mentally Fit Helpline’, for athletes competing in Tokyo to help them overcome stress and anxiety. A joint initiative of the IOC and the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), the helpline will be available during and for up to three months after the Games. Tennis player Naomi Osaka had raised the issue of the impact of the pandemic on mental health of sportspersons. The IOC’s helpline is an effort to help athletes tackle such problems. The helpline will be staffed by counsellors, who can provide help, advice, and support in over 70 languages. (IANS)