Elite but Struggling: Mediated Narratives of Women Athletes and Mental Health Disclosures

Abstract

This monograph analyzes online coverage and social media posts from five professional athletes—Simone Biles, Serena Williama, Naomi Osaka, Chloe Kim, and Gracie Gold—to sheds light on the journalistic and individual narratives around athletes, performance, goals as these intersect with mental health. Online news and entertainment media’s general representation of athletes frequently emphasizes victory with a focus on outcomes, often overshadowing the athletes’ well-being. Using social identity and framing theories, the study identifies narratives in social and online media, emphasizing the storytelling components related to mental health, as well as what athletes express as potential causes of the mental health issues they are experiencing, especially intense competition, physical condition, media pressure, and a general lack of mental health awareness in sports. The study’s examination of how athletes use their social media platforms to help journalists craft their stories offers a deeper understanding of their mental health stories beyond the basic win-or-lose narrative. We advocate for a paradigm shift, urging recognition of athletes as individuals with vulnerabilities who deserve supportive environments.