How the International Olympic Committee (IOC) is Supporting Athlete Wellbeing at the Games

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has introduced a suite of innovative measures at the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, marking a historic step towards prioritising athlete wellbeing. This comprehensive package includes cutting-edge mental health and safeguarding initiatives designed to protect athletes on and off the field.

AI-Powered Protection Against Cyber Abuse

Paris 2024 is using an AI-powered cyber abuse protection service, covering all athletes participating in the Games. This technology monitors social media platforms in 37 languages, proactively removing abusive posts before they reach athletes. This is the first time AI has been used to provide such extensive online safety, with thousands of harmful posts already intercepted.

Mind Zone x Powerade: A Sanctuary for Athletes

The Olympic Village in Paris hosts the Mind Zone x Powerade, a unique mindfulness space that has already seen over 800 athletes and entourage members, achieving a 92% satisfaction rate. Located within the village’s fitness centre, this space offers athletes a place to relax and mentally prepare through mindfulness activities, supported by a team of IOC professionals.

This facility, created in partnership with Coca-Cola’s Powerade brand, features innovative activities such as immersive VR mindfulness experiences. These sessions encourage athletes to engage in calming exercises, helping them to sleep better and mentally prepare for competitions. The tranquil environment also offers activities like painting and yoga, allowing athletes to disconnect and recharge.

Mexican archer Ana Vázquez, who frequently visited the Mind Zone, praised its impact on her preparation, stating, “For me personally, I love the Mind Zone; it’s mind-blowing. [The VR experience is] just amazing; I cried the first time I did it, and I have been there a lot of times since then because I want to rest well and get ready for the competition.”

Comprehensive Support Network

A robust network of safeguarding officers has been established to ensure athletes have access to necessary support. This network includes 148 accredited National Olympic Committee (NOC) Welfare Officers from 76 NOCs, 41 International Federation (IF) safeguarding focal points, and two IOC Safeguarding Officers within the Olympic Village. These officers are certified professionals dedicated to providing mental health and safeguarding services tailored to athletes’ specific needs.

Round-the-Clock Mental Health Support

The Mentally Fit Helpline, a dedicated service offering confidential and anonymous support, is available 24/7 in over 70 languages. This helpline will remain accessible to athletes for four years after the Games, underscoring the IOC’s long-term commitment to athlete mental health. Through the Athlete365 platform, athletes can access courses on mental health topics and benefit from a free mindfulness app subscription.

A Continued Commitment to Athlete Well-being

Building on years of dedication to mental health and safeguarding, the IOC launched its Mental Health Action Plan in 2023. This strategy serves as a roadmap for promoting mental well-being among athletes, incorporating tools such as the IOC Safeguarding Toolkit and the Mental Health in Elite Athletes Toolkit.

With these pioneering initiatives, the IOC sets a new standard for athlete care, ensuring that mental and physical health are equally prioritised at Paris 2024 and beyond.