Mental health challenges are a growing concern on college campuses, and student athletes are no exception. Recent studies show that a significant percentage of student athletes struggle with mental health issues, yet many are reluctant to seek the help they need because of stigma and fear of their personal matters becoming public.
At the University of New Haven, where resources like Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) are available, the question remains: How well does the university support the mental health of its student athletes, and what more can be done to address the unique challenges they face?
Nick Ehl, a freshman and goalie for the university’s club ice hockey team, said, “My mental health is pretty good, I just feel bored now that the season is over.To be honest, I’m terrible at balancing my academics and athletics. Yes, I am aware of where I can get help, and I am comfortable seeking help if needed. I believe the school could help athletes by making sure that team staff checks with players more often, because athletes trust their coaches more than outside help.”
Over the last few years, mental health struggles among students have risen dramatically. A survey of nearly 100,000 students across more than 100 U.S. college campuses revealed that 36% experienced anxiety, 41% exhibited symptoms of depression, 14% considered suicide, and 29% engaged in non-suicidal self-injury according to Talkspace. This marks a concerning 50% increase in just a decade. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), prior to 2000, just around 30% of students faced mental health challenges, as society considered it a minor and easily solvable issue. Today, with society more open to addressing mental health, a significant number of those affected are athletes, particularly student athletes.
Depending on the level at which they compete, student athletes’ names can be well-known, even broadcast worldwide. A study by the NCAA found that 44% of student athletes face some type of mental health struggle. However, many are forced to keep their struggles private due to media and societal pressures. According to a 2021 NCAA study, 47% of student athletes feel uncomfortable seeking help, which can lead to decreased performance, social isolation and fatigue.
“Getting through the everyday routine can get repetitive, and you can miss out on a lot of social opportunities,” said Michael Celatka, a graduate student and cross-country runner. “Everyone on campus will be at a fun event or going out, and I’ll be doing something for my sport, which can get frustrating.”
Celatka said he also integrates his homework and recovery time.
“I do this because I believe it’s all about making both things a priority, and it makes it easier on my mental health,” he said.
Though Celatka said he is aware of the resources on campus, he doesn’t use them. He suggested that the university’s mental health support should focus on what happens after student athletes leave college.
“Athletes make their sport their identity, and if they don’t make it to the professional level, they will lose that identity,” Celatka said. “Finding ways to move on and create a new identity should be a focus of the mental health resources.”
During their athletic seasons, student-athletes have a sense of responsibility and discipline. When the season concludes, the absence of structure can make it difficult for athletes to maintain balance.
