University Presentation Showcase: Undergraduate Division
How Sports Injuries Influence Mental Health in Ongoing Participation
Presenter Hometown
Hamden, Connecticut
Major
Psychology
Department
Psychology
Degree
Undergraduate
Mentor
Adam Lawson
Mentor Department
Psychology
Recommended Citation
Jones, Tiatianna, "How Sports Injuries Influence Mental Health in Ongoing Participation" (2025). University Presentation Showcase Event. 52.
https://encompass.eku.edu/swps/2025/undergraduate/52
Abstract
Physical activity and sports are essential for maintaining both physical and mental health. Research indicates that physical activity and sports engagement have numerous mental health benefits, such as improved mood and reduced anxiety. However, regardless of the sport you play or the way you choose to stay active, encountering mental barriers at some point is inevitable. These challenges may manifest as anxiety, body dysmorphia, injuries, substance abuse, sleep disorders, or stress. However, when an injury occurs, these benefits may be overshadowed by the negative psychological effects that follow (Congsheng et al., 2022). Injuries often disrupt daily routines, limit mobility, and affect an individual's sense of identity, particularly for student-athletes who rely heavily on their physical capabilities. In such cases, mental health issues like anxiety and depression may emerge, exacerbating the recovery process. In addition, involuntary retirement from sports due to injuries has been linked to severe mental health consequences, including feelings of loss, frustration, and isolation, this can be especially pronounced in athletes who view sports as a core part of their identity (Kerr et al., 2014; Furie et al., 2023).
This study aims to explore how the mental health of athletic students is affected by injuries and the subsequent physical adjustments required during recovery, such as wearing orthotic devices. Based on the findings of existing literature, it is hypothesized that physically active individuals and athletes who experience injuries are more likely to face increased levels of anxiety and depression. This psychological impact can further affect their overall motivation, psychological health, and capacity to return to their previous level of activity (Jakum, 2023). The insights gained from this study aim to provide a better understanding of the intricate relationship between physical injuries and mental health, ultimately contributing to more effective support systems for injured athletes.
Presentation format
Poster
How Sports Injuries Influence Mental Health in Ongoing Participation
Physical activity and sports are essential for maintaining both physical and mental health. Research indicates that physical activity and sports engagement have numerous mental health benefits, such as improved mood and reduced anxiety. However, regardless of the sport you play or the way you choose to stay active, encountering mental barriers at some point is inevitable. These challenges may manifest as anxiety, body dysmorphia, injuries, substance abuse, sleep disorders, or stress. However, when an injury occurs, these benefits may be overshadowed by the negative psychological effects that follow (Congsheng et al., 2022). Injuries often disrupt daily routines, limit mobility, and affect an individual's sense of identity, particularly for student-athletes who rely heavily on their physical capabilities. In such cases, mental health issues like anxiety and depression may emerge, exacerbating the recovery process. In addition, involuntary retirement from sports due to injuries has been linked to severe mental health consequences, including feelings of loss, frustration, and isolation, this can be especially pronounced in athletes who view sports as a core part of their identity (Kerr et al., 2014; Furie et al., 2023).
This study aims to explore how the mental health of athletic students is affected by injuries and the subsequent physical adjustments required during recovery, such as wearing orthotic devices. Based on the findings of existing literature, it is hypothesized that physically active individuals and athletes who experience injuries are more likely to face increased levels of anxiety and depression. This psychological impact can further affect their overall motivation, psychological health, and capacity to return to their previous level of activity (Jakum, 2023). The insights gained from this study aim to provide a better understanding of the intricate relationship between physical injuries and mental health, ultimately contributing to more effective support systems for injured athletes.
