Analysis of Mental Health Programs and Their Relationship to Injuries in Football Players: A Systematic Review

The implementation of mental health programs within athletic settings provides an opportunity to address the challenging psychological demands currently experienced by college athletes. Mental health issues in sports have received increased attention in recent years because of their significant personal, social, and financial consequences. Mental health disorders affect individuals who participate in sports with a prevalence comparable to that found in the general population. The mental health of athletes must be evaluated to improve the support they receive during injury and rehabilitation. Football continues to be a widely practiced sport worldwide with a high injury rate. Close to 50% of injuries in football are severe and result in a prolonged absence from the field. There is a tendency to neglect the psychological consequences of this injury and mainly focus on the diagnosis and treatment of the injury. The aim of this review was to highlight the relationship between injuries and the implementation of mental health programs. The inability to meet mental health needs following a period of injury might contribute to the perpetuation of injuries among players. In football, mental health programs play an important role in reducing the rate of injuries.