The care episode of a young elite-level female cyclist with major depressive disorder and comorbid eating disorder: A sports psychiatry case report from Switzerland.

Abstract

Elite-level athletes can experience mental illnesses as frequently as the general population. In professional cycling, distinctive psychosocial risk factors and inadequate formal support may heighten psychiatric vulnerabilities, yet treatment case examples remain scarce. Consequently, we outline the care episode of a 20-year-old female elite-level cyclist in Switzerland, who ceased competing and was thereafter diagnosed with major depressive disorder and a continuing diagnosis for a comorbid eating disorder, likely exacerbated by sport-specific stressors. Whilst psychopharmacological outpatient treatment yielded initial progress, the patient's persistent suicidality necessitated voluntary inpatient admission. Her mental health improved post-discharge, though reintegration into cycling entailed difficulties, prompting a transition to a team with a less demanding schedule that allowed for a better balance between sporting and personal commitments. At the time of writing, the patient's symptoms had stabilised and she was engaging in advocacy to raise awareness about athlete mental health. Accordingly, this case adds to the therapeutic evidence-base on elite-level athletes, demonstrating the importance of individualised psychiatric interventions that prioritise sustainable and holistic wellbeing.