The Intersection of University Athletics and Mental Health: A Canadian Perspective

Existing research indicates that Canadian student-athletes experience mental health disorders at higher rates than the general student population. However, while the mental health of American student-athletes has been extensively researched, there is limited literature available about the mental health of Canadian student-athletes. Very little is also known about the stressors associated with participating in Canadian university athletics and how these stressors differ from the US experience. Using a narrative approach, this study identifies the stressors that negatively impact the mental health of Canadian student-athletes. Fourteen student-athletes were interviewed, from a range of varsity sports (individual and team) at Canadian universities, who self-identified as having a mental health issue. Participants emphasized facing significant pressures to perform while also struggling to balance their various roles and prioritize academic outcomes. Athletic injury was also identified as a significant factor contributing to negative mental health in Canadian student-athletes. Highlighting the commonalities with American literature while also highlighting the unique experience of university sports in Canada is imperative. In doing so, how to best provide mental health services and minimize barriers to accessing support within the Canadian context might be better understood.