Know the score: Empowering sport choices with a straightforward solution

Abstract

Risk factors associated with depression in athletes include biological sex, physical pain, and history of sport-related concussion (SRC). However, although there are well-documented benefits of sport and physical activity on mental health, many sportspeople still take the risk of competing in contact sports. Therefore, this infographic, supported by scientific evidence, aims to provide sportspeople with an informed decision on their participation. This infographic can be used by sports clubs or governing bodies to illustrate the risk that SRC has on the mental health of sportspeople. Likewise, it highlights the elevated risk of being in physical pain and being a female sportsperson. Therefore, this infographic provides a simple message to enhance the decision-making process of sportspeople, ensuring they are making a better-informed choice of their sporting participation and making their own cost/reward judgment.