Recent research meta-analyzing mental health symptoms across a range of different studies has demonstrated the consistent impact of anxiety and depression on current and former athletes, with 34% and 26% of athletes showing mental health symptoms in sport and post-sport, respectively.
Similarly, 60% of youth athletes struggle with mental health challenges during their sports careers (American College of Sports Medicine, ACSM Statement on Mental Health Challenges for Athletes) and 91% of high school athletes report experiencing some level of stress related to sports (National Library of Medicine, Prevalence of Stress Amongst High School Athletes).
Other factors, such as alcohol misuse, particularly in current athletes, are alarmingly high, with forms of distress contributing to mental health issues in retired athletes.
An Increase in Mental Health Issues Among Athletes
Consequently, athlete mental health issues are prevalent in sports, but what is driving this upsurge? While sports psychiatry and research are nascent, contemporary analysis highlights several facets that may be contributing. Factors such as performance failure, injury impeding sporting success, and an increased vulnerability in athletes (particularly women) to maintain a lean body image are apparent.
Similarly, inadequate support networks have been examined as a critical risk factor for advanced-level athletes.
Low Social Support Leads to Poorer Mental Wellness
Studies have shown the vital need for athletes to have strong support networks both informally and formally during their sporting careers. For example, one