Suicide Is Now the Second Leading Cause of Death in U.S. College Athletes, Study Finds

Suicide is now the second most common cause of death among U.S. college athletes, a new study finds.

Researchers say that while athletes are thought of as one of the healthiest populations

“…The pressures of school, internal and external performance expectations, time demands, injury, athletic identity and physical fatigue can lead to depression, mental health problems and suicide.”

They also warn that harassment and abuse within a sport may be contributing factors.

The researchers analyzed suicide rates in NCAA athletes from 2002 – 2022 and found the number had doubled during that time period.

Overall, there were 9 suicide deaths every 2 years in male athletes and 3 deaths every 2 years in female athletes.

The highest number of suicides was among male cross-country athletes, and among division I and II athletes.

But no significant differences were found by sex or race, according to the results.

The authors say more resources are needed to screen athletes, and to train coaches and support staff on how to identify athletes at risk and provide access to mental health providers trained in sport psychology.