Black Football Student-Athletes’ Perceived Barriers to Seeking Mental Health Services

Black male student-athletes have endured frequent stereotyping on college campuses (Hawkins, 2010). Additionally, Black student-athletes have experienced educational, campus, and athletic stressors (Miller & Hoffman, 2009). Many student-athletes do not seek mental health services because of their status on campus (Watson, 2005). The general population has experienced common barriers in seeking mental health services including low socio-economic status (Hurd, Stoddard, & Zimmerman, 2013) and negative stigmas related to metal illness (Wang et al., 2005). While it is reasonable to assume similar challenges exist for Black student-athletes, it must be investigated empirically. As such, the purpose of this study was to examine the perceived barriers Black Division I football student-athletes face in seeking professional mental health services. Using phenomenological methodology, semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine Black football student-athletes. The data revealed two themes: weakness and silence. The results of this study will allow stakeholders to better assist this population in seeking mental health treatment and eliminating the barriers associated with seeking mental health services.