Mental Health in Competitive Athletes: A Scoping Review of Risks, Resilience, and Psychological Outcomes Compared to Non-Athletes

Abstract

Competitive athletes experience psychological stressors that may be associated with mental health outcomes. Sports participation has been reported to be associated with emotional regulation and social self-efficacy, while participation at elite or varsity levels has been examined in relation to outcomes such as eating disorders, perfectionism, and capability for suicide. This scoping review synthesizes evidence from five studies comparing mental health outcomes between athletes and non-athletes. The limited number of included studies reflects the strict eligibility requirement for direct athlete versus non-athlete comparisons, a research focus that remains underrepresented in the existing literature. The review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA-ScR to ensure methodological transparency and systematic reporting. The included studies describe both risk factors and protective factors associated with athletic participation, with particular attention to differences across sport type and level of competition. The findings highlight the relevance of considering athlete subgroups, including those participating in high-impact or aesthetic sports. Further research is required to examine mental health outcomes across more diverse demographic groups and to assess longer-term psychological outcomes beyond active competitive participation.