Breaking Down Mental Health Barriers in Motorcycle Racing
The stigma surrounding mental health in sports has significantly diminished over the past few years, with more athletes opening up about their personal struggles. In the world of motorsport, Formula 1 race winner Lando Norris has been at the forefront of destigmatizing mental health. However, the industry still has much to do, particularly with the increasing pressure on those working in the sport.
Addressing the Issue in Motorcycle Racing
One area where the motorcycle racing community is taking steps to address this issue is through the Dan Kneen Charitable Fund‘s partnership with Rock2Recovery. Together, they’ve created TORQ, a groundbreaking welfare service designed to support those affected by serious racing incidents on the TT course. TORQ aims to provide help for competitors who have suffered serious injuries and are dealing with mental health issues related to long periods of recovery, as well as those coming to terms with the loss of someone.
The Isle of Man TT: A Tough and Grueling Nature
The Isle of Man TT, known for its tough and grueling nature, often perpetuates the outdated idea that men must be strong and resilient. However, the reality is that many riders struggle with mental health issues. Suicide remains the leading cause of death in men under the age of 50, and they are three times more likely than women to die by suicide.
Riders Open Up About Mental Health Struggles
One rider who has benefited from Rock2Recovery‘s support is Lee Johnston, a one-time Supersport TT winner. Johnston suffered serious injuries at the North West 200 last year and has been open about his mental health struggles during his recovery.
“When you talk to these people and you understand, and not even in your own field, just other walks of life, it’s very, very similar,” Johnston says. “The big thing is, whatever the problem is, somebody will have gone through it before. You’d think we’ve been around long enough to think we’re not the first person to suffer this thing, and that’s a little bit what you feel like at the start, I suppose.”
Supporting Marshals and Rider Safety
TORQ will also be available to marshals, who are often the first on the scene in a serious incident. The voluntary army clad in orange overalls is vital to the running of motorsport events, and TORQ is ensuring they receive the support they need.
As the TT strives to keep its standards on rider safety as high as possible, initiatives like TORQ are crucial. Earlier this year, the TT announced a new competitor medical standards initiative, aiming to improve physical and mental preparation for riders.
Ending the Stigma Around Mental Health
Johnston hopes that TORQ becomes a service riders use just as they would physiotherapy, ending the stigma around mental health in motorcycle racing. “I think just the fact that everyone… if they want to be using this the same way they go to the physio, that would be [great],” Johnston concludes.
With the tireless work of the Dan Kneen Charitable Fund and Rock2Recovery through TORQ, the narrative around mental health in motorcycle racing is slowly changing. And as riders and fans become more comfortable speaking up, the wider motorcycle racing community will benefit.
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