The Prevalence of Depression Disorders in Retired Adult Athletes who have been Exposed to sub–Concussive Head Impacts Throughout their Playing Careers

Abstract

This literature review examines the prevalence of depression disorders among retired adult athletes who have been exposed to sub-concussive head impacts throughout their playing careers. The study aims to synthesize existing research findings on the association between concussion history, repetitive head impacts, and depressive symptoms in retired athletes across various sports contexts. A systematic review of relevant literature yielded a critical mass of ten articles, which were analyzed to address the research questions. The review highlights several key themes, including the increased risk of depression associated with multiple concussions, the importance of understanding the long-term consequences of repetitive neurotrauma, and the need for further research to inform preventive measures and support strategies for athletes at all levels. Limitations of the studies reviewed, such as small sample sizes, retrospective reporting biases, and cross-sectional designs, are also discussed. Despite these limitations, the findings of the review provide valuable insights into the complex relationship between concussion history and mental health outcomes in retired athletes. The conclusions drawn from the literature review have implications for real-world applications, particularly in informing interventions aimed at improving the mental health and well-being of retired athletes. Recommendations for future research include conducting longitudinal studies with larger cohorts, validating findings in diverse populations, and exploring potential therapeutic interventions targeting mental health outcomes in this population.