Differences in mental health outcomes between adolescent elite athletes and peers not engaged in elite sport

Elite athletes are confronted with various challenges, pressures and stressors. Due to their status as student athlete, adolescent elite exposed a double burden of stress (pressure be simultaneously successful in school sport), which adds the general risk for psychological problems this developmental period. To facilitate combination sport education, almost all cantons Switzerland have established schools, offer special track athletes. We examine (i) whether differ from controls series mental health outcomes, (ii) links between perceived symptoms particularly strong among athletes, (iii) training/competitive load interact explain variance health. Cross-sectional data 156 (134 classes, 22 regular classes) 150 non-athletic (peers not engaged sport) were analysed. All students recruited Swiss Olympic Partner attended grade 10-14. In total, 5–19% reported moderate-to-severe symptoms. With regard depressive, burnout insomnia symptoms, no significant differences found controls. A consistent link was observed higher perceptions more frequent However, engaging did seem an additional source distress (or vulnerability factor) adolescents moderate-to-high levels. High amplify association Currently, comprehensive framework or model care exists support respond needs young Our findings show that it is time address these challenges prevent issues ensure can flourish while developing full potential.