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Athlete Mental Health History...
Athlete Mental Health History...
Athlete’s physical health is always at the forefront of people's minds, but what isn’t talked about is athlete mental health. Two in five college athletes reported feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed; and 91% of high school athletes reported feeling stressed due to their sport. Prospective college athletes also have to juggle school, their sport, and the recruitment process; which is getting increasingly more difficult. The recruiting process is being introduced to students earlier and earlier, with many students beginning their journeys as early as middle school. The expectation of needing to play sports at the highest level conditions young athletes to be overly self critical and unhealthily competitive. Because of the highly competitive world of sports most athletes equate their confidence and mental health with success, playing time, recruitment, and statistics. Mental health in athletes is a constant issue that doesn’t get enough attention.
Athlete’s physical health is always at the forefront of people's minds, but what isn’t talked about is athlete mental health. Two in five college athletes reported feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed; and 91% of high school athletes reported feeling stressed due to their sport. Prospective college athletes also have to juggle school, their sport, and the recruitment process; which is getting increasingly more difficult. The recruiting process is being introduced to students earlier and earlier, with many students beginning their journeys as early as middle school. The expectation of needing to play sports at the highest level conditions young athletes to be overly self critical and unhealthily competitive. Because of the highly competitive world of sports most athletes equate their confidence and mental health with success, playing time, recruitment, and statistics. Mental health in athletes is a constant issue that doesn’t get enough attention.
Athlete Advocates
Athlete Advocates
Simone Biles
Simone Biles
Simone Biles became a powerful advocate for mental health primarily by prioritizing her well-being and withdrawing from several events during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics due to the "twisties" and overwhelming pressure. Her courageous and public decision normalized the conversation around mental health struggles in elite athletes, demonstrating that it's okay not to be okay. Biles continues to use her platform to encourage others to seek professional help, emphasizing the importance of therapy, self-care, and a strong support system. This openness has significantly helped to destigmatize mental health issues both in sports and on a global scale.
Micheal Phelps
Micheal Phelps
Michael Phelps advocates for mental health by openly sharing his decades-long battle with severe depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts, especially after his Olympic highs. He emphasizes that seeking therapy saved his life and is a sign of strength, not weakness, challenging the stigma particularly for male athletes. Phelps utilizes his Michael Phelps Foundation to integrate mental and physical wellness programs for children, encouraging early communication and self-care. Through public speaking and partnerships, he continues to spread the message that "it's OK to not be OK" and to prioritize mental health daily.
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