The Relationship Between Demographic Characteristics and Stigma Toward Utilizing Mental Health Support Services in College Student-Athletes

The Relationship Between Demographic Characteristics and Stigma Toward Utilizing Mental Health Support Services in College Student-Athletes PDF Author: Steven J. Orris
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : Educational psychology
Languages : en
Pages : 0

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Book Description
Current research has suggested that college student-athletes are at an increased risk for experiencing mental illness but utilize mental health support services at a lower rate than the general college student population. Stigma toward mental illness has been identified as a factor that can influence student-athletes' decision to utilize mental health support services. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationships between the demographic variables of socioeconomic status, sport played, class, race and gender and levels of stigma toward mental illness and peers that utilize mental health support services. This study also investigated college student-athletes' perceived attitudes toward the benefits and barriers to utilizing mental health support services. The participants in this study were 141 NCAA student-athletes who completed an online survey assessing stigma and attitudes toward peers that utilize mental health support services. Follow-up interviews were conducted with seven participants to gain a deeper understanding of the salient attitudes toward the benefits and barriers to utilizing mental health support services. Analyses were conducted to identify relationships between demographic variables and high stigma levels. Results indicated that there was a significant relationship between sport played, class, and gender and stigma levels within the sample. Also, qualitative analysis indicated that self-awareness was identified as a perceived benefit to utilizing mental health support services, but mental health illiteracy, fear of being labelled, and stigma were perceived barriers to utilizing mental health support services in this sample. Findings from this study have implications for how college athletic departments deliver effective mental health support programs to their student-athletes.

The Relationship Between Demographic Characteristics and Stigma Toward Utilizing Mental Health Support Services in College Student-Athletes

The Relationship Between Demographic Characteristics and Stigma Toward Utilizing Mental Health Support Services in College Student-Athletes PDF Author: Steven J. Orris
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : Educational psychology
Languages : en
Pages : 0

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Book Description
Current research has suggested that college student-athletes are at an increased risk for experiencing mental illness but utilize mental health support services at a lower rate than the general college student population. Stigma toward mental illness has been identified as a factor that can influence student-athletes' decision to utilize mental health support services. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationships between the demographic variables of socioeconomic status, sport played, class, race and gender and levels of stigma toward mental illness and peers that utilize mental health support services. This study also investigated college student-athletes' perceived attitudes toward the benefits and barriers to utilizing mental health support services. The participants in this study were 141 NCAA student-athletes who completed an online survey assessing stigma and attitudes toward peers that utilize mental health support services. Follow-up interviews were conducted with seven participants to gain a deeper understanding of the salient attitudes toward the benefits and barriers to utilizing mental health support services. Analyses were conducted to identify relationships between demographic variables and high stigma levels. Results indicated that there was a significant relationship between sport played, class, and gender and stigma levels within the sample. Also, qualitative analysis indicated that self-awareness was identified as a perceived benefit to utilizing mental health support services, but mental health illiteracy, fear of being labelled, and stigma were perceived barriers to utilizing mental health support services in this sample. Findings from this study have implications for how college athletic departments deliver effective mental health support programs to their student-athletes.

Examining the Relationship Between Stigma and Help-seeking Attitudes Among Student-athletes

Examining the Relationship Between Stigma and Help-seeking Attitudes Among Student-athletes PDF Author: Lauren Vanhusen
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : College athletes
Languages : en
Pages : 222

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Book Description
This study investigated the relationship between public stigma, self-stigma, and help-seeking attitudes in a sample of undergraduate student-athletes. Student-athletes appear to be at increased risk for developing mental health issues compared to their non-athlete counterparts (Etzel et al., 2006). However, student-athletes appear to underutilize available mental health services for fear of being labeled as mentally ill as well as other factors (Pinkerton, Hinz, and Barrow, 1989). The purpose of the current study is to explore two facets of stigma as a potential explanation for negative attitudes toward help-seeking and thus the underutilization of these mental health services. Sixty-six student-athletes completed a 10-minute paper-pencil survey. The survey included measures of self-stigma, public stigma, help-seeking attitudes, demographic variables, and an open-ended question regarding barriers to help-seeking. Results indicated that self-stigma mediated the relationship between public stigma and help-seeking attitudes, which replicates the mediated model found in Vogel et al. (2007). Self-stigma appears to explain how negative stereotypes about those who seek help are internalized to form negative attitudes toward help-seeking for student-athletes. Further, student-athletes noted barriers to help-seeking such as lack of time or knowledge of resources as well as fear of being labeled as mentally ill. Implications for research and practice are delineated.

Mental Health Service Utilization, Knowledge, Stigma, and Protective Factors in a College Student Sample

Mental Health Service Utilization, Knowledge, Stigma, and Protective Factors in a College Student Sample PDF Author: Jasmine M. Morigney
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : College athletes
Languages : en
Pages : 69

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Book Description
Students of color and student-athletes undergo unique stressors in college, such as discrimination and time constraints, that impact their mental health needs. They have shown more mental health stigma and less service utilization. This study explored these variables and groups using secondary data analyses from the 2019-2020 Healthy Minds Study (HMS). The current study hypothesized that utilization would be associated with stigma, knowledge, and resilience. Additionally, student-athletes and students of color would report less utilization and more stigma and resilience. Results indicated that students of color reported no difference in utilization and less stigma and resilience than White students. Student-athletes reported less utilization and more stigma and resilience. Resilience was found to be a moderator between mental health difficulties and utilization. Resiliency is an important component among aspects of mental health in college students. As such, this research provides important information about help-seeking habits and considerations for interventions in these populations.

Student-athletes' Perceptions of Mental Illness and Attitudes Towards Help-seeking

Student-athletes' Perceptions of Mental Illness and Attitudes Towards Help-seeking PDF Author: Jordan David Barnard
Publisher:
ISBN: 9781303008375
Category : College athletes
Languages : en
Pages : 184

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Book Description
The negative effects of disclosing a history of mental illness and the need for mental health services are well documented in the professional literature (Corrigan, 2005). Being labeled as "mentally ill" can lead to negative stereotypes placed on the individual that lead to prejudice and discrimination (Corrigan, 2004). These negative effects of disclosing psychological disturbances have led to some individuals being hesitant to seek help, even if the individuals or those close to them feel it is needed (Thornicroft, 2006). College students are a vulnerable population due to the likelihood that they will experience their first psychological disturbance during their college years (Eisenberg, Golberstein, & Gollust, 2007), making access to mental health care crucial. College student-athletes may be even more at-risk for certain psychological disturbances, based on their unique demands and environmental stressors they face (Pinkerton, Hintz, & Barrow, 1989). College student-athletes appear to be underutilizing the mental health services available to them on college campuses (Watson & Kissinger, 2007). Prior studies have shown that college student-athletes are less likely to seek out mental health treatment than other college students (Watson, 2005). The purpose of this study was to see whether or not college student-athletes would exhibit more negative attitudes than student-nonathletes towards mental illness. This study also compared the attitudes toward seeking psychological help between athletes and non-athletes (using a measure developed for use with student-athletes and student-nonathletes by Watson, 2005). Scales that measure social distance, perceived devaluation and discrimination towards mental illness were used to operationalize stigma towards mental illness. The scales this study used to measure social distance (Martin et al., 2000) and perceived discrimination towards mental illness (Link, 1987) had never been used before in a student-athlete population. The potential roles that athletic identity, race, and gender play in treatment-seeking comfort were also examined.

An Evaluation of Marginalized Student-Athlete Mental Health, Access To and Utilization of Support Services

An Evaluation of Marginalized Student-Athlete Mental Health, Access To and Utilization of Support Services PDF Author: Ashley Boles
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 0

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Book Description
NCAA student-athletes (SAs) face unique challenges as they simultaneously navigate sports, adulthood, and academic demands. Research indicates that SAs experience mental health issues at rates similar to or higher than their non-athlete peers, yet they are often less likely to seek help as they experience possible contributing factors including lack of knowledge on how and where to seek services, and stigma, which can both discourage service utilization. This study examined the mental health concerns of 145 NCAA SAs, focusing on the impact of biopsychosocial (BPS) factors influenced by division, injury, and marginalization status. Using Engel’s BPS framework, which considers biological, psychological, and social dimensions, the study aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of SA mental health. The research explored differences in mental health concerns across NCAA divisions, injury status, and marginalization status (e.g., race, gender, sexuality) and their influence on access to and use of mental health services. Findings indicated that SAs across all divisions face similar mental health challenges; however, disparities were noted, particularly among marginalized groups, including women and LGBTQ+ SAs. These groups reported greater mental health challenges and varying levels of support from coaches, teams, and institutions, often compounded by stigma and perceived inadequate support. The study advocates for policy change across all NCAA divisions to further prioritize mental health, promote holistic well-being, and enhance SA performance. It calls for a cultural shift within athletic departments and institutions to destigmatize mental health issues and provide inclusive, tailored mental health support systems that meet the diverse needs of all SAs. This research emphasizes the need for equitable mental health support to address the interconnected factors contributing to SA mental health, aiming to raise awareness and drive improvements in mental health resources for student-athletes.

The Examination of the Attitudes and Stigma Toward Mental Health Services Held by Black College Student-athletes and College Nonathletes

The Examination of the Attitudes and Stigma Toward Mental Health Services Held by Black College Student-athletes and College Nonathletes PDF Author: Tony Spencer
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 0

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Book Description
Author's abstract: The primary purpose of the current study was to examine the differences in attitudes and stigma toward mental health services between Black college student-athletes and college nonathletes. The secondary purpose of the study was to examine any gender difference in attitudes and stigma toward mental health services between Black college student-athletes and college nonathletes. A Mann-Whitney U statistical analysis was used to compare participant results from the three stigma toward mental health services survey measurements (Komiya et al., 2000; Vogel et al., 2006; Vogel et al., 2009). The current study hoped to further advance the literature examining the attitudes and stigma toward mental health services held by racially diverse college student-athlete populations.

Exploring Mental Health Help-seeking Behaviors in Student-athletes

Exploring Mental Health Help-seeking Behaviors in Student-athletes PDF Author: Geana R. Shemak
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : Mental health
Languages : en
Pages : 118

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Book Description
Introduction: Adolescents and young adults experience a high level of mental health conditions.These disorders appear to be increasing in number and severity. The prevalence rate for 18-25-years-olds is 8.7% in 12 months. Mental health conditions are treatable, yet many people do not seek professional help. Seeking help from a professional source is particularly important for preventing, early detection, treatment, and recovery from mental health conditions. Purpose: The purpose of this mixed-methods study is to demonstrate the prevalence of depression, explore student-athletes attitudes towards seeking mental health help, understand what factors may influence help-seeking behaviors, and explore the athlete's perceptions of the role that athletic trainers play in the assessment and referral process. Methods: An exploratory, concurrent mixed methods design was used. Survey data from the ATSPPH-SF and PHQ-9 were collected from collegiate student-athletes. A phenomenological approach will guide the qualitative research process. Semi-structured interviews will be audiotaped, transcribed, and analyzed using an interpretive thematic analytical approach. Study Participants: National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) student-athletes participating at the Divsion III (DIII) level. Results: The prevalence of depression was almost 42% in the study population. There was no relationship between PHQ-9 scores and sex. Attitudes towards seeking help were generally positive. Females tend to have more favorable attitudes than males, but this finding was not statistically significant. There was no relationhship between PHQ-9 scores and ATSPPH-SF scores. Barriers to help-seeking included perceived seriousness, stigma, lack of time, accessibility, prefer to handle issues on own, and cost. Facilitators to help-seeking included perceived and nee-problems that were serious enough to warrant help and a supportive network. Clinical Importance: As we continue to address the mental health crisis, it is imperative to understand what prevents student-athletes from seeking professional psychological help and develop supportive programs to help them overcome these barriers. Certified athletic trainers, coaches, and other athletic personel need to understand the seriousness of untreated mental health conditions and be educated to recognize when an athlete may be struggling with issues beyond their control. Knowing when to refer a student-athlete to a professional is essential in preventing potential unnecessary and irreversible consequences.

Campus Mental Health Practices and the Stigma of Mental Illness

Campus Mental Health Practices and the Stigma of Mental Illness PDF Author: Megan Krone
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : College students
Languages : en
Pages : 210

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Book Description
Around half of undergraduate college students will experience mental illness to some extent during their academic careers, yet a low percentage of students experiencing signs and symptoms of mental illness will seek help despite the availability of proven, effective treatments. The field of higher education has demonstrated a genuine concern for individuals with mental illnesses and mental health care on campuses, yet implementation of practices that connect students to treatment is inconsistent and effectiveness is uncertain. This study searched for associations between campus practices and campus culture regarding mental illness. While institutions of higher education are using both traditional and emerging mental health practices, little research has been done to inform institutions which practices may be effective in increasing healthy behaviors, such as help seeking. This study focused on the stigma of mental illness due to its consistent, negative relationship with help-seeking behaviors. Stigmatizing attitudes of Student Affairs professionals was used as a measure of campus culture due to professionals' direct, consistent relationships with students and their ability to influence policies and procedures that affect support of student mental health and students with mental illness. The final sample of Student Affairs professionals included 125 professionals at over 80 institutions in over 30 states. Social stigma was measured using the newly developed Student Affairs Professionals Social Stigma Scale (SAPSSS) based on Corrigan's (2004) model of stigma. SAPSSS scores were analyzed to search for relationships between awareness of, referral to, and engagement in campus mental health practices; contact with individuals with mental illness; staff characteristics (level, area, length of employment); and institutional characteristics (type, size, affiliation, and designation). The results of this study include a list of campus mental health practices and support for the use of practices that target relationships, between individuals and between groups, in creating caring campus communities. While other practices may be effective in supporting or treating individuals with mental illness, practices that target relationships in educating members of the campus community to care for each other show the most potential for influencing campus culture to increase mental health on campuses at all levels.

An Investigation of College Student-athletes' Mental Health Stigma, Help-seeking Attitudes, Depression, Anxiety, and Life Stress Scores Using Structural Equation Modeling

An Investigation of College Student-athletes' Mental Health Stigma, Help-seeking Attitudes, Depression, Anxiety, and Life Stress Scores Using Structural Equation Modeling PDF Author: Saundra M. Tabet
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 330

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Book Description
Keywords: Student-athletes, intercollegiate athletics, mental health stigma, help-seeking attitudes, depression, anxiety, life stress, and structural equation modeling.

Exploring the Relationship Between Team Characteristics and Mental Health Symptoms Amongst Student Athletes

Exploring the Relationship Between Team Characteristics and Mental Health Symptoms Amongst Student Athletes PDF Author:
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 45

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Book Description
Depression and anxiety are disabling conditions that are particularly prevalent amongst young adults (Wolanin, Hong, Marks, Panchoo, & Gross, 2016). Student athletes must cope with extensive time demands that go beyond those of ordinary young adults, consequently putting them at increased risk to experiencing mental health issues. Numerous factors may influence an athlete's well being, such as gender, injury, and type of sport. This study tests these various factors but also extends previous literature by analyzing the effects of team dynamics on student athlete mental health. An anonymous multi-part questionnaire was sent out to all JMU athletes in the Fall of 2017. Chi square statistical tests were used to determine whether there was a mathematical association between team characteristics and the presence or absence of mental health symptoms. There was a significant correlation between 'pressure' and anxiety (X2 = 13.403, p = .009). In addition, 'inability to trust teammates' and 'not sharing goals of personal improvement' also contributed to increased levels of anxiety. There was a significant correlation between serious injuries and depression (X2 = 4.325, p = .038). Lack of time for social life and inability to effectively manage conflicts within the team both contributed to increased levels of depression as well. Fortunately, the data showed that JMU's student athletes had higher mental health scores than American college students as a whole, according to prior research, and they do feel as though the resources available to them are adequate.