Evidence Brief: A Synthesis of Current Evidence for the Systematic Support of Migrant Athletes’ Mental Health

Mental health is a fundamental component of overall well-being, and a basic human right. Athletes are positioned as role models in society and are often regarded as resilient in the face of adversity. However, the demands placed on them can negatively affect their mental health. Prioritizing athletes’ mental health can help them maintain performance and cope with the rigours of everyday life.

This project examined the role of governance structures in providing systematic mental health support for athletes, with a particular focus on migrant athletes, who are among those most vulnerable to mental health concerns. Two aims guided the project:

To systematically synthesize research evidence to develop best practice guidelines for a mental health support system for migrant athletes.

To explore the extent to which migrant athletes have been involved in the development of knowledge about mental health resources they need.

The project team synthesized knowledge through a critical scoping review methodology that maintained a broad scope while identifying emerging evidence to inform the development of culturally sensitive mental health policies and potential steps and considerations for organizations developing mental health governance policy. PRISMA guidelines were used to ensure a systematic and robust search for academic publications from six academic databases, while national sport organizations were contacted to identify pertinent grey literature. Data from each source were charted separately, with the team collating their findings and developing an interpretive summary to address the project aims.

A novel approach will be used to disseminate findings through the creation of creative nonfiction vignettes to guide how organizations may systematically develop governance structures to provide mental health support for migrant athletes.