Inside the Mind: An Athlete's Mental Health Journey During Injury

Athletes and their mental health is something that is rarely ever talked about. Specifically, their mental health during an injury. However, it is finally time that this changes. The literature includes studies that provide insight to just how detrimental an athletes mental health during the time of injury can be. This project aims to exemplify the mental health issues that accompany athletes as they travel through their injury process. The project collects data regarding the athlete’s mind to examine the struggles underneath the surface of collegiate athletics. Interviews from five athletes from different sports on campus at California State University, Fullerton were the source of the data. There is a strong correlation of injuries to depression, and other mental health issues. This mental health journey from an athlete’s time of injury to completed rehabilitation should not be taken lightly. Athletes should be treated with priority regarding both physical and emotional needs during this time