Perceptions of Mental Illness Stigma: Comparisons of Athletes to Nonathlete Peers

Stigma related to mental health and its treatment can thwart help-seeking. The current study assessed college athletes’ personal and perceived public mental illness stigma and compared this to nonathlete students. Athletes (N = 304) were National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I athletes representing 16 teams. Results indicated that athletes reported greater perceived public stigma than personal stigma. Athletes reported significantly higher levels of stigma compared to nonathlete peers (n = 103). Accordingly, athletes may benefit from education that can reduce the stigma of mental illness and reduce prejudices toward those who are seeking treatment. Additional implications for improving access to care are discussed.