How Mental Health Stigma in Sports Hurts Athlete’s Performance and Well-Being

Abstract

This paper digs into the stigma associated with mental health issues in elite sports and its negative impact on athletes’ and performance. I am going to examine why the fear of being called “weak" or “unfit” discourages athletes from seeking the help that they need, which leads to worsen mental health conditions. This paper will also highlight how these stigmas shape an athlete’s identity, which leads to plenty of other negative long-term mental health issues. During this study, we will not only discuss mental health as an athlete, but we will also take a look at how it affects life post-sport and how we can advocate for institutional reform. Lastly, this paper ends by pointing out current gaps in research studies, more specifically, the lack of long-term studies of impact on this stigma, and offers recommendations for future research.

Year Manuscript Completed

Spring 2025

Senior Project Advisor

Tricia Jordan

Degree Awarded

Bachelor of Integrated Studies Degree

Field of Study

Commerce & Leadership

Document Type

Thesis

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