Sport

Student-athletes face significant mental health challenges as they navigate the dual pressures of performing both academically and physically. While recent data suggests some improvement in mental health problems post-pandemic, the landscape remains concerning, with high rates of anxiety and depression, and some extreme cases of burnout.   Balancing an accurate and demanding academic schedule with demanding commitments to sport puts student-athletes under incredible amounts of stress. Time management is one of the main factors causing this stress, which often leads to mental exhaustion. These rigid schedules limit athletes from opportunities of self-care, incrementing the probabilities of mental health issues. A 2023 NCAA survey involving more than 23,000 student-athletes revealed th...

Disclaimer: Mental health topics are discussed in this article. Balancing academic responsibilities with participating in performance and competitive sports can be rewarding yet challenging and overwhelming for student-athletes. Awareness around mental health has grown, and increasing psychological attention has been given to athletes who face those struggles. These students often find themselves navigating a close-fitting schedule, high expectations and intense physical stress, all whilst managing a social life. For many, the combination can become a burden, most times causing anxiety, stress, and in some cases, burnout. Dr. Max Stone, a lecturer in Sport & Exercise Psychology, explains the weight that this can take on a student-athlete. ‘Athletes are not immune to mental hea...