by Callum Thomas, University of Lincoln

Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Researchers from the University of Lincoln have published a first of its kind study into loneliness in sport.

This study, published earlier this month in the International Review of Sport and Exercise Psychology, is the first to systematically review research into loneliness in sport, drawing on data from 194 studies involving more than 88,500 participants.

The findings highlight loneliness as a significant issue affecting athletes, coaches, and officials at all levels of sport, as well as an urgent need for greater awareness and targeted interventions to address this often overlooked issue.

Led by Dr. Trish Jackman, Associate Professor in Sport and Exercise Psychology, and colleagues from the University's School of Psychology, Sport Science and Wellbeing, the study shows that loneliness is prevalent in the sporting community and is closely associated with a range of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts.

Many athletes, despite being surrounded by teammates, experience feelings of isolation, and this can severely impact their well-being and performance. Similarly, loneliness is also prevalent among coaches and sports officials, with some describing their roles as particularly isolating.

The research identifies several unique factors within the sporting environment that can exacerbate loneliness. These include injury and retirement, which can leave individuals feeling isolated and disconnected from their social circles.

The high-pressure environment of competitive sport, along with cultural norms that discourage vulnerability, further contributes to these feelings of isolation. Male athletes and coaches, in particular, are often under pressure to conform to traditional masculine ideals, which discourages seeking help and discussing emotional difficulties.

Despite the increasing focus on mental health in sport, the study found a lack of interventions aimed specifically at reducing loneliness. While mental health programs are becoming more common, few initiatives have been developed to directly address the issue of social isolation in sport. The study calls for targeted strategies that focus on fostering social connections within sporting environments, which could help alleviate the negative impact of loneliness.

The research also highlights that strong interpersonal relationships act as protective factors against loneliness. Athletes who had supportive social networks, whether through friends, family, or teammates, were less likely to experience feelings of isolation. The study suggests that sports organizations should take action to encourage the development of these social connections.

It is hoped that the study will help prompt a broader discussion about mental health in sport and encourage sports organizations to consider loneliness as a key area of concern, as well as shaping future research into loneliness in a sporting context.

Speaking about the study, Dr. Trish Jackman said, "Sport can be a valuable way for people to forge meaningful social connections, but the evidence suggests that it can also be a lonely place for many people and that particular aspects of sport and the culture of sport might contribute to loneliness for some. By drawing together evidence on loneliness in sport, this research offers a platform for the development of initiatives to prevent and reduce the impacts of loneliness in this context."

More information: Patricia C. Jackman et al, Loneliness in sport: A systematic mixed studies review, International Review of Sport and Exercise Psychology (2024). DOI: 10.1080/1750984X.2024.2405507

Provided by University of Lincoln