Lifestyle risk and protective mental health factors among Polish high-performance coaches and support staff at the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games: a mixed-methods analysis

This study aimed to develop insights into mental health status and selected lifestyle components among Polish high-performance winter sports entourage during the high-demand period at the Winter Olympic Games Milano-Cortina 2026 (OG).A mixed-methods approach included quantitative cross-sectional assessment (n = 56/69, completion rate of 81.2%) using validated questionnaire instruments and thematic analysis based on semi-structured interviews (n = 8). Participants were Olympic-level coaches and support staff (physiotherapists, physicians, psychologists, technicians, team coordinators, etc). from the Polish national team pool, approached immediately before or during OG. Descriptive statistics, ANCOVA, and regression analysis were used in the quantitative component; Braun and Clarke's 6-phase framework in the qualitative component.The entourage exhibited notable prevalence of depressive (19.6%) and anxiety (14.3%) symptoms, and high life satisfaction. Participants demonstrated average sleep hygiene, mixed dietary habits and predominantly met WHO physical activity recommendations. The mental health outcomes were associated with sleep hygiene, physical activity, and mattering (p < .05). The qualitative component revealed dual professional burdens, strong athlete-first orientation, and willingness to accept personal trade-offs. The final qualification phase was perceived as more demanding than the OG themselves, with the structured environment serving as a buffer against lifestyle disruption. Effective functioning was largely attributed to deliberate pre-Games preparation.This study contributes to understanding of mental health and lifestyle during a period of peak professional demand. The observed levels of mental ill-health symptoms warrant developing diagnostic tools and support strategies for high-performance entourage members, particularly coaches. Lifestyle characteristics represent modifiable correlates of mental health outcomes.