Identifying Barriers to Mental Health Care For Canadian Student-Athletes: A Narrative Approach

Canadian student-athletes and American college athletes face unique stressors related to their sport and have demanding schedules. Although there is limited research specifically focused on the mental health of Canadian student-athletes participating in university sports, existing studies indicate that Canadian student-athletes report increased levels of psychological distress and are more susceptible to mental health issues compared to the general student population. Despite this, many do not seek or receive the treatment they need. This study aimed to identify the barriers to mental health care for Canadian student-athletes competing in Canada. Using a narrative approach, participants identified barriers to mental health treatment, including cultural stigma and voluntary isolation, in addition to a lack of availability of mental health services and the suffering of Canadian student-athletes.