Depressive disorders in athletes are thought to be at least as common as the general population. However, athletes have a unique set of risk factors that can affect the likelihood of developing depression. Screening tools have been developed specifically for athletes such as the Sport Mental Health Assessment Tool (SMHAT). The management of the depressed athlete should involve an individualized approach, with methods such as counseling, interpersonal therapy, or cognitive behavioral therapy being used. Some may require antidepressant medication. Depressive disorders are also linked to sucidality in athletes, and the team physician and sporting organisation should have a crisis management plan in place for mental health emergencies. Tackling the stigma that remains in sport is a key part to improving mental wellbeing for all athletes. Key Points • Depression prevalence appears to be at least as common as the general population, and possibly higher. • Athletes have similar risk factors to the general population but also a unique set of risk factors such as injury, competition failure, performance failure, or individual sport. • The management of depression in athletes requires an interdisciplinary team approach, often using nonpharmacological treatment such as counseling, sometimes medication, but also addressing the sporting environment and
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