We Need to Talk About Who Sport Psychology Still Misses

"The death of Marshawn Kneeland is a tragic reminder that athletes, even those rising to the top of their game, are human beings first. The best highlight reels can mask the weight of expectations and the psychological pain many athletes carry in silence. Sport psychology holds the power to support athletes as they navigate these pressures and sustain both their performance and their well-being."

"Once reserved for elite competitors, sport psychology is now a visible and valued part of athletic environments at every level. High-profile athletes have helped normalize seeking help, and many programs now include sport psychologists who work to enhance performance, foster resilience, and protect mental health. Despite this progress, critical gaps remain in who sport psychology reaches. Who Is Sport Psychology Leaving Out?"

The death of Marshawn Kneeland underscores that athletes are human and can experience severe psychological pain despite public success. Highlight reels often conceal the weight of expectations and silent struggles. Sport psychology can support athletes in managing pressure, sustaining performance, and protecting well-being. Sport psychology has expanded beyond elite competitors, with high-profile athletes normalizing help and programs adding practitioners to foster resilience and mental health. Significant gaps persist: men, BIPOC, LGBTQ+ athletes, and younger players face stigma, limited representation, and poor access. A study found 78 percent of minority student-athletes reported need but only 11 percent sought help.

Read at Psychology Today