Sports Performance Phobias / choking

In sports, ‘choking’ refers to a failure to perform in a high pressure situation, due to psychological interference. It is a specific performance anxiety which typically occurs at the point of carrying out a ‘closed’ sports skills such as putting, serving, pitching, or kicking a goal. While the onset can be unpredictable, an athlete may subsequently suffer significant anxiety in apprehension of participating in their sport, for fear of choking again; which may in turn exacerbate the issue. In severe cases, an athlete may consider leaving their sport entirely, believing they have lost their skills. CBT in conjunction with broader sports psychology and performance principles can be an effective treatment for Sports Phobias.