Athletes are susceptible to mental health symptoms and disorders because they are human and because of the risk factors imposed by sport.1 The current mental health crisis is making participation in sport and life even more challenging for this population. The American Academy of Pediatrics, American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and others have declared a national emergency in child and adolescent mental health.2 Suicide is now the second leading cause of death for young people (ages 10-34 years).3 Moreover, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and substance use disorders among athletes are associated with early attrition from sport,4 a higher risk of injuries,5 negative effects on sports performance,6 burnout,7 and lower levels of academic and occupational functioning.6 Importantly, aspects of the crisis are unique and concerning in the world of sport. Physicians, other licensed mental health professionals, athletic trainers, coaches, and other members of the athlete entourage witness this painful reality every day in their offices and on the playing fields. This editorial highlights several factors that may be synergizing to create the perfect storm leading to this crisis in the world of sport: emerging adulthood as a particularly challenging phase of life, discrimination and racism, increasing professionalization of sports at younger ages, a lack of mental health literacy and resources, the effect of technology and the 24/7 world, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
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