Overcoming the stigma of mental health in sport

Abstract

The stigma of mental health in the athletic setting is a principal barrier to help-seeking among athletes. While athletes may be seen as models for health and wellness within their communities, they may be in fact as vulnerable to some mental illnesses as the general population. The culture of sports can discourage athletes from disclosing of mental health concerns for fear of judgment and reprisal. Athletes, and the people around athletes such as coaches, may also be unaware of the signs and symptoms of mental illness. In recent years, a number of barriers and facilitators to mental health help-seeking have been identified. Governing organizations are beginning to take steps to improve the mental health care of their athletes, while fostering an environment more conducive to disclosure of mental health concerns.