Depression in college athletes

Sample Solution

    Introduction Depression is a serious mental health disorder that affects millions of people around the world each year. It is particularly prevalent in college athletes, who often have to balance rigorous training schedules with academic commitments and competing demands. This research proposal will

explore the prevalence and causes of depression in college athletes, as well as how this mental illness can be managed effectively among these individuals. Background Athletes at all levels face numerous demands, including physical training, performance expectations and dietary restrictions. Studies have shown that such stressors can take an emotional toll on many athletes and contribute to feelings of depression (Meyer et al., 2018). College athletes may experience similar pressures but are further challenged by balancing their athletic obligations with academics (Giles & Kane, 2014). Such a combination of factors has been linked to higher rates of depressive symptoms among college athletes (Lueken et al., 2015; Petrie et al., 2017). Despite this evidence, there has been limited research into understanding depression in this population or effective methods for treatment and prevention within a collegiate setting. Aim/Objectives The aim of this study is to explore the prevalence and causes of depression in college athletes as well as potential interventions for managing it effectively within a collegiate setting. Specifically, this research will investigate: 1) The prevalence rate of depressive symptoms among college athletes compared to non-athletic peers; 2) Potential risk factors associated with increased risk for developing depression amongst student-athletes; 3) How university support systems can best respond to the needs of depressed student-athletes; 4) Effective approaches that universities could adopt in order to reduce incidence rates of depression amongst student-athletes. Methodology This study will use both quantitative and qualitative methodologies involving survey data collection from both male and female students enrolled at two large public universities located in different regions across the United States - one on the East Coast (University A) and one on the West Coast (University B). All participants must be 18 years old or older at time of enrollment and must self-identify either as an athlete or non-athlete during recruitment stage. Surveys will be administered online via Qualtrics software platform containing questions about demographics, lifestyle habits, academic confidence level, perceived stress levels etc.. Additionally focus groups consisting mostly athlete’s representatives from both universities will also be convened for further information gathering about perceptions towards student life along with any reported incidents related to psychological distress amongst peers due sport activities participation . Finally interviews with relevant university officials who are responsible for providing assistance services such counseling centers , career planning offices etc..will offer insight into current curriculum structures regarding physical , mental health awareness programs offered by respective institutions . Expected Outcomes This study seeks to gain insights into how university support systems can better address issues surrounding mental health challenges faced by student-athletes both academically , emotionally & medically . This should result in recommendations that could potentially inform future policies designed specifically geared towards supporting optimal wellbeing & overall success amongst these individuals while pursuing postsecondary studies through successful completion graduation requirements References Giles JE & Kane KJ (2014), ‘Stressors experienced by NCAA Division I intercollegiate Student Athletes’ Journal Of American College Health 63(3): 180–187 Lueken SA et al,. ‘Depressive Symptoms Among Division I Intercollegiate Student Athletes Compared With Nonstudent Athletes’ Clinical Journal Of Sport Medicine 25(4): 349–354 Meyer NA et al,. ‘Psychological Distress Prevalence And Correlates In Elite Youth Athletes: An International Cross Sectional Survey Study’ PLOS ONE 15(9): e0238476 Petrie TA et al. ‘College Athletics Stressors As Predictor Or Depressive Symptoms Among College Student‐Athletes: An Exploratory Examination” Research Quarterly For Exercise And Sport 88(2): 242–250