Depression in Retired Athletes: An Overlooked Population

Authors

  • Kayla Mann Auburn University - Departartment of Sports Medicine
  • Emily Madrak The University of Virginia

Abstract

Research regarding varsity athletes and depression continues to grow. Despite this, retired athletes are often overlooked. Current studies suggest retired athletes have similar reported outcomes when reporting depressive symptoms, but none address why they think this might be, what these specific symptoms are, or what we as clinicians can do to lower this number and provide good health care before and after retirement. Three articles were used to discern the highest quality evidence of this topic. The results of the 3 are inconsistent in their reported rates of depression among the retired athlete population in comparison to the general population. However, the articles were consistent in providing clinically significant information on the topic of depression in retired athletes. Themes included prevalence in depression in retired athletes and a need for more research, greater reported rates of depression in retired collegiate athletes compared to non-athletes, and a lack of care and resources for the retired athlete population. Conclusively, more interventional studies and longitudinal studies need to be completed, along with avenues for treatment.  

Author Biography

Kayla Mann, Auburn University - Departartment of Sports Medicine

Kayla Mann is a certified athletic training intern at Auburn University. She primarily works with the Tiger Softball team. Her research interests involve mental health in athletics.

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Published

2025-10-30

Issue

Vol. 9 No. 5 (2025): Articles

Section

Athletic Training

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