Mental health problems, health risk behaviors, and prevention: A qualitative interview study on perceptions and attitudes among elite male soccer players

Abstract

BackgroundThe purpose of this study was to investigate the perception of mental health problems and health risk behaviors among Swedish male elite soccer players and their attitudes toward possible prevention strategies.MethodTwenty elite soccer players, aged 15–30 years, were recruited through purposive sampling and interviewed via a digital video calling platform. A semi-structured interview guide, encompassing questions about mental health problems, health risk behaviors among soccer teams, peer-relations, relations to coaches, and attitudes toward health risk behaviors, along with proposals for effective interventions, was employed. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed with qualitative content analysis.ResultsThe informants reported positive feelings in relation to playing soccer, good health, and few health risk behaviors. Risk factors included a large income, excessive free time, and the need for excitement. Stress and mental health problems were linked to performance pressure, social media, and injuries. Hesitation to talk openly about personal problems due to concerns about negative consequences and the “macho culture” was highlighted as barriers to admit and seek help for personal problems. Some statements indicated openness and the club's efforts to destigmatize personal problems. Positive attitudes toward prevention and suggestions for various measures were prominent.ConclusionFuture research and implementation of interventions should focus on the prevention of health risk behaviors and alleviation of stress and performance pressure, as well as continue the efforts to destigmatize mental health problems and raise awareness among coaches of the importance of their communication and behavior for players' mental health and performance. This could be achieved by developing strategic and systematic policy work, information, and dialogue among players and coaches, in addition to individual digital or face-to-face support, provided by professionals outside the soccer context.

Association between eHealth literacy and health outcomes in German athletes using the GR-eHEALS questionnaire: a validation and outcome study

“…Our results could be further explained by the barriers athletes face when seeking for psychological or medical help [58]. Due to their strict training schedule, athletes might not find the time to make an appointment with physicians [59] or they might perceive injuries and pain as a default in their daily training and competition [60].…”

Association Between eHealth Literacy and Health Outcomes in German Elite Athletes using the GR-eHEALS

“…Our results could be further explained by the barriers elite athletes face when seeking for psychological or medical help (50). Due to their strict training schedule, athletes might not nd the time to make an appointment with physicians (51) or they might perceive injuries and pain as a default in their daily training and competition (52).…”

Mental Health in First- and Second-Division Soccer Players: A Cross-Sectional Study

“…Indeed, the higher the level of the athletes within their soccer division, the higher their exposure to stressors. Factors such as high levels of pressure to perform, exposure to the media, strong competition, and multiple hours of physical training can all end up impacting the mental health of athletes [ 19 ].…”

“…In addition, dysfunctional sports environments that provide little support to players may be factors that contribute to the development of maladaptive symptoms or mental disorders of different levels of severity [ 18 ]. In this regard, players highlight the relevance of a supportive relationship between players and coaches and between teammates [ 18 , 19 ].…”