The Real Numbers and What They Mean for Athletes

“Obstacles don’t have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it.”  - Michael Jordan

While 23.1% of U.S. adults experienced a mental health issue in 2022, up to 35% of elite athletes report facing mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, burnout, and eating disorders. While prevalence has decreased for student-athletes over the years, nearly 44% of females report experiencing mental health symptoms daily, showing small improvement from 47% before. Similarly, 35% of men reported feeling mentally drained, down slightly from 38%, with higher rates among women, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ athletes. These stats are a few of many. Athletes are symbols of physical prowess and determination but still face intense mental health challenges that are often hidden. The perception that athletes are immune to struggles is misleading; they are, in fact, more vulnerable in certain ways.

They push past fatigue, setbacks, and obstacles with admirable dedication. Yet, it’s crucial to acknowledge that beneath their relentless pursuit of perseverance lie silent battles that may go unnoticed. The strength of an athlete is not just in their physical excellence but in their ability to navigate emotional hurdles. Experiencing performance pressure, tying your identity to results, and coping with public scrutiny extend beyond the playing field. It’s difficult to not take the game home with you. Injuries add another layer, disrupting routines and identity, leading to isolation and fear about the future. The expectation to maintain a high standard without acknowledging these struggles intensifies feelings of anxiety and depression.

The NCAA’s recent data provides some hope, showing a slight reduction in mental health concerns post-pandemic, but it’s uneven. Marginalized groups continue to face more significant challenges. This tells us progress is happening, but gaps remain.

Overcoming these obstacles requires the collective effort of coaches, teams, and sports organizations to promote mental health as an integral part of athletic training, not an afterthought. Creating a supportive environment where seeking help is encouraged allows athletes to climb over, push through, or work around the walls of mental struggle.

The next time you watch your favorite game, remember the grit they go through to get where they are. Acknowledge athletes are whole individuals, not just competitors.

Prioritizing mental health is essential for sustainable performance and overall well-being, embodying the true spirit of strength and perseverance. And this truth doesn’t just apply to athletes; it’s a reminder for all of us who have faced “walls” on our journeys. Embracing mental health as part of that journey is what turns obstacles into opportunities for growth.