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PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECT AND RESILIENCY DUE TO LONG-TERM ABSENCE INJURIES IN COLLEGIATE ATHLETES

Abstract

Joshua Davis Clothier, Kristin Riggsbee. Maryville College, Knoxville, TN.

BACKGROUND: In the span of five academic years, 23,710 injuries were reported to the National Collegiate Athlete Association (NCAA) participating schools. These injuries can be attained with practices, strength training workouts, and/or games. When injuries occur, negative psychological effects can occur, such as anxiety and decreased quality of life (QOL). The primary purpose of this cross-sectional study was to determine the overall mental wellness of athletes who have had long-time absence injuries in collegiate sports and to evaluate the resiliency response of these athletes. METHODS: An electronic survey assessing rate of injury among sports, psychological responses to injury and QOL was distributed to athletes at one NCAA Division III school for three weeks in spring 2021. RESULTS: Most participants were white (89.7%), female (55.9%), and 82.3% of all participants experienced injuries during their collegiate career. However, 41.1% reported long-term injuries (more than 4 weeks) that had significant impacts on symptoms of anxiety and depression with 90% indicating moderate to high risk for poor mental wellness and decreased QOL with 31.7% indicating neutral to highly dissatisfied QOL. Many participants reported that the best way to support them during injuries was through the support of athletic trainers. CONCLUSIONS: Further research is needed to better understand the psychological impact of long-term injuries on college athletes as well as optimal forms of support for these athletes.

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