Data Sheet 2_Challenging stigma and promoting mental health literacy in junior professional sports: an evaluation of an informational event.docx

BackgroundYoung elite athletes face unique developmental, academic, and performance-related demands, which can increase their vulnerability to mental health difficulties. Despite these risks, stigma and limited knowledge about mental health often inhibit help-seeking. Evidence-based, preventive interventions tailored to this population remain scarce.
MethodsThe present study evaluated a 90-minute informational event designed to enhance mental health literacy and reduce mental health stigma among young elite athletes. A total of 81 participants aged 12–18 completed self-report questionnaires before and after the intervention. Outcomes assessed included stigma-related knowledge, direct and indirect stigmatizing attitudes, psychological services literacy, and general and source-specific help-seeking intentions.
ResultsThe findings indicate that a brief, low-threshold informational event was associated with higher levels of young elite athletes’ knowledge of available psychological support services, operationalized as psychological services literacy (p < .001), as well as increases in general help-seeking intention (p = .001) and source-specific help-seeking intention (p < .001). No significant changes were observed in direct (p = .390) or indirect stigmatizing attitudes (p = .179). Overall, participants reported high satisfaction with the content, structure, and delivery of the event.
DiscussionThe findings indicate that a brief, low-threshold informational event was associated with higher levels of young elite athletes’ knowledge of available psychological support services and their willingness to seek help. While changing stigmatizing attitudes may require more intensive or repeated interventions, the study highlights the potential of targeted preventive approaches to promote psychological well-being in junior professional sports.