Perceptions of Mental Health Among College Student-Athletes: Understandings of Mental Health and Help-Seeking Behavior.

• In Event: 30260 - Joint Roundtables: Section on Social Psychology and Section on Sociology of Emotions
  In Refereed Roundtable (90 minute): Table 7: Social Psychology of Mental Health

Abstract

The research examines the ongoing professionalization of college sports and how college athletic culture shapes student-athletes' perception of mental health, their awareness and knowledge of mental health, and their comfort with seeking help. To understand student athletes' perceptions, I paid particular attention to their identity, self, and emotions. I focus on Division I college student-athletes because this population is the most at risk of mental health concerns due, in part, to the increased expectations for performance and scrutiny that have accompanied professionalization at this level.
 
Most college student-athlete studies have focused on the influence of emotional management on athletes' mental health and the correlation between mental health and performance. However, very little research has been done on college student-athletes' perceptions of mental health. Perceptions of mental health influence what athletes do when in distress. Understanding how they think about mental health can provide insight into barriers athletes face to seeking treatment.To address this gap, I employ qualitative in-depth interviews to examine how college student-athletes understand, practice, and interpret mental health. This approach is crucial as it allows for a comprehensive exploration of the topic and can inform the development of mental health programs and protocols that respond to their needs. 
The interviews enabled me to examine participants' identities as student-athletes, the emotions they experience in their student-athlete roles, and their attitudes about mental health.

Author

• Angelique Ceccon, University of South Florida