Dae Hee Kwak, University of Michigan – Athletes with Mental Health Problems No Longer Need to Suffer in Silence

Injuries in sports used to be considered strictly physical.

Dae Hee Kwak, associate professor of sports management at the University of Michigan, explores how that’s changing today

Dae Hee Kwak is an Associate Professor of Sport Management in the School of Kinesiology at the University of Michigan and the Director of the Center for Sport Marketing Research. With a research focus on sport consumer behavior, he examines how cognitive and emotional factors influence sport consumers’ decision-making and behaviors.

Athletes with Mental Health Problems No Longer Need to Suffer in Silence

Professional athletes are increasingly opening up about their mental health struggles, and this honesty is resonating with fans. Historically, athletes were seen as invincible, expected to perform under immense pressure without showing vulnerability. This perception is changing as more athletes share their mental health challenges.

Athletes like Simone Biles, Naomi Osaka, and Michael Phelps have publicly discussed their mental health issues, breaking the stigma around this topic. Osaka, for example, withdrew from the French Open due to mental health concerns. This decision sparked a global conversation about the importance of mental well-being, even for top performers.

These revelations significantly impact fans, especially young people who see athletes as role models. When athletes talk about their struggles, it sends a powerful message that it’s okay to not be okay, encouraging fans to prioritize their mental health and seek help when needed. This shift is crucial in a world where mental health issues are becoming increasingly common.

Social media plays a key role in this dynamic. Platforms like Instagram and Twitter allow athletes to connect directly with their fans, sharing their stories personally and impactfully. Fans often respond with overwhelming support, sharing their experiences and expressing gratitude for the athlete’s honesty. This creates a sense of community and solidarity.

From a business standpoint, this trend can also be beneficial. Brands and sponsors increasingly value authenticity and connection over mere performance. Athletes open about their mental health can enhance their personal brand, making them more relatable and trustworthy to consumers, leading to stronger fan loyalty and increased marketability.

The increasing openness of professional athletes about their mental health struggles is a positive development that benefits both athletes and fans. By sharing their vulnerabilities, athletes help dismantle the stigma around mental health, fostering a culture of acceptance and support. This trend humanizes athletes and empowers fans to take their mental health seriously, creating a ripple effect of positive change.