Mental health symptoms among Dutch elite athletes and their coaches: A cross-sectional study

Objective To establish the prevalence of mental health symptoms (MHSs) among Dutch elite athletes and their coaches, to examine the association between potential contributing factors and MHS among Dutch elite athletes and their coaches and to explore the view and needs of Dutch elite athletes and their coaches regarding mental health resources and support. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted by distributing an electronic questionnaire based on validated screening questionnaires for the assessment of MHS. Results In total, 156 athletes (55% female) and 95 coaches (79% male) across various sports participated in this study. The most prevalent MHS among athletes and coaches were distress (73% and 41%) and alcohol misuse (52% and 53%). Adverse life events showed an association with anxiety, depression, sleep disturbance, alcohol misuse and disordered eating while severe injuries showed an association with distress and sleep disturbance in elite athletes. Among coaches, no significant associations were found between potential contributing factors and MHS. 60% of the athletes and 60% of the coaches (totally) agreed that they could openly address their mental health issues within their sport while 53% of the athletes and 41% of the coaches (totally) agreed a need for increased attention regarding mental health/guidance in their sport. Conclusions MHSs are prevalent among Dutch elite athletes and coaches. Recent adverse life events and severe injuries have a potential intersection with MHS in elite athletes. There is a need for increased attention regarding mental health/guidance among Dutch elite athletes and coaches within their sport so that subsequent treatment/support can be provided.