Research gaps in the correlation of anxiety and depression prevalence in former college athletes: a systematic review.

Abstract

Context: There is not much current literature looking at anxiety and depression in athletes transitioning out of college sports into the real world. This study identified gaps in the current mental health literature for former college athletes and what interventions are currently being offered to help them. By utilizing the gaps identified in the current literature, we provided recommendations for educational programs that are modeled on the programs that professional sports leagues offer while utilizing the existing college infrastructure. We also encourage future research to perform longitudinal studies following these athletes as they transition from sports.

Objectives: Collegiate sports participation is integral to culture and identity. Transitioning from athletics to regular life often leads to significant mental health concerns. Abrupt lifestyle and identity changes can result in dietary, career, and health consequences that impact athletes' mental well-being. While some data addresses this transition, research focused on developing best practices to support athletes during this period remains limited. This study aims to conduct a systematic review to identify the existing research and gaps concerning the described supports in mental health, particularly depression and anxiety, in retired athletes.

Methods: A systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Scoping Review (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. We analyzed original research, literature reviews, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, clinical trials, and case studies. Articles were sourced from PubMed (MEDLINE), Embase, Scopus, Cochrane, and Web of Science.

Results: A total of 169 articles were identified, with 61 selected for full-text screening and nine included in the study. These nine articles comprised four cross-sectional studies analyzing survey data, four systematic or scoping reviews, and one qualitative analysis. While all articles addressed depression or anxiety, most focused on individuals returning to exercise post-injury and quality of life.

Conclusions: Current research highlights the needs of collegiate, professional, and retired athletes. Limited literature exists on former collegiate athletes, with available studies emphasizing university programs to ease transitions and help athletes apply their skills in retirement. Research gaps include examining programs across divisions and sports, minimizing self-reporting surveys, and conducting longitudinal studies. Future efforts should focus on addressing these gaps to better support athletes transitioning to life beyond sports.