While the mental health challenges of retiring athletes have rightfully garnered attention, it’s imperative not to overlook the mental well-being of young sportspeople as they embark on their careers.
The transition out of professional sports can be tumultuous for many athletes, as highlighted by the experiences of high-profile figures like Brendan Cannon, Nathan Bracken, Stephanie Rice, and Lauren Jackson in Australia. The recent passing of former Australian Football League (AFL) player Cam McCarthy, who battled mental health issues, has further underscored the need for enhanced support during and after retirement.
However, focusing solely on post-career mental health neglects a critical aspect of the issue: the mental well-being of athletes at the outset of their careers.
Athletes often invest their identities heavily in their sport, making the disruption of their athletic pursuits, whether due to injury or retirement, particularly challenging from a mental health perspective. While commendable efforts are being made to address mental health concerns post-retirement through programs offered by sporting organizations, more attention must be directed towards supporting athletes at the onset of their careers.
Early intervention is pivotal in mental health care, especially considering that 75% of mental health issues emerge by the age of 24. Young athletes face an array of pressures and responsibilities, compounded by the demands of elite sports and the typical challenges of adolescence. Despite this, there has been a noticeable lack of emphasis on promoting mental well-being during this pivotal transition period.
Efforts to support athlete mental health must begin early, starting from entry into high-performance systems. Organizations such as Orygen have developed frameworks to promote mental health among aspiring athletes, advocating for comprehensive support systems that address the unique challenges they may face.
Recommendations include providing athletes with an understanding of the challenges they may encounter throughout their careers and equipping them with healthy coping strategies. Moreover, fostering an environment where athletes are valued beyond their sporting achievements and preparing them for life beyond their athletic endeavors is crucial.
Sports organizations are beginning to take steps in this direction. Initiatives like the AFL’s mental health literacy curriculum for Talent Pathways players and the AIS’s Start Strong program offer valuable resources to young athletes and their families.
However, further investment and collaboration are needed to ensure that mental health support is integrated into every aspect of an athlete’s journey. By prioritizing mental well-being from the outset, we can empower young athletes to navigate the challenges of elite sports while leading healthy and fulfilling lives, both on and off the field.
