The Dual Impact of Media Exposure on Athletes' Mental Health

In a digital age where everything is broadcast, and televised athletes are subject to unprecedented scrutiny. This paper explores the complex effect of media exposure, both positive and negative on the mental health of professional and amateur athletes. The paper will use communication theories like framing theory, agenda setting and social comparison theory, to analyze how athletes stress levels, self-esteem, and emotional stability are affected by media. Positive media exposure can cause athletes self-esteem to increase as seen in the literature and case studies. While negative media coverage can send an athlete spiraling out of control. The role of social media will be highlighted within the paper focusing on how social media can amplify feedback and its implications for emotional well-being. The media either stigmatizes or promotes mental health depending on the situation when it comes to athletes. The main goals of the paper are to push for media literacy, foster positive media relations between athletes and the media, and advocate for further research to help underscore the necessity of prioritizing mental health in the evolving sports culture.