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Published on: September 25, 2014
Mental Health in the Athlete.
Claudia L Reardon1, Ryan Benoy1
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, 6001 Research Park Boulevard, Madison, WI 53719, USA.
Neurologic Clinics
|June 30, 2026
Summary
Athletes experience mental health conditions as frequently as the general population, facing higher risks for issues like sleep problems and eating disorders. Early recognition and treatment, including psychotherapy, are crucial for their well-being.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Mental health disorders affect athletes at rates comparable to or exceeding the general population.
- Athletes may have unique vulnerabilities to specific mental health conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the prevalence and specific risks of mental health disorders in athletes.
- To inform clinicians about the nuanced presentation and management of these conditions in athletic populations.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on mental health in athletes.
- Analysis of epidemiological data regarding mental health conditions in athletic populations.
Main Results:
- Athletes exhibit high prevalence rates for various mental health symptoms and disorders.
- Disproportionate risks identified for sleep problems, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, disordered eating, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and addictive disorders.
- Nuanced clinical presentations require specific awareness from healthcare providers.
Conclusions:
- Clinicians must be vigilant for mental health issues in athletes, incorporating routine screening.
- Psychotherapy is the primary treatment, with medication as a potential adjunct.
- Addressing mental health is essential for optimizing athlete performance and overall well-being.
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