Mixed Health Outcomes in NCAA Athletes with Concussion History
A new study reveals mixed health outcomes for NCAA athletes with concussion history, highlighting the importance of early support during the transition out of college sports. Contact sport participation may have protective mental health benefits.
Recent research examining NCAA athletes during their first year after college sports revealed a complex picture of health impacts related to concussion history and sport participation. The study analyzed data from the NCAA-DoD Concussion Assessment, Research and Education (CARE) Consortium, involving 3,663 student-athletes. Participants completed multiple health questionnaires assessing cognition, mental health, physical health, and neurobehavioral symptoms.
Findings showed that athletes with a history of three or more concussions experienced increased depressive symptoms and neurobehavioral issues such as irritability and concentration problems. Interestingly, athletes who participated in contact sports reported better mental health and fewer neurobehavioral symptoms than those in non-contact sports, and those with more years playing their primary sport also reported improved mental health scores.
These results challenge the traditional view that concussions invariably lead to mental health deficits, suggesting instead that the team environment and prolonged sport engagement may offer some protective benefits. The study highlights the importance of early intervention, emphasizing the need for targeted support and mental health screenings during the transition out of college sports, which has been an underexplored period.
Conducted by researchers from the University of Michigan and collaborating institutions, this study underscores the significance of understanding athlete health during key life transitions. Early interventions could include follow-up mental health assessments and support programs aimed at mitigating potential long-term effects of concussion history.
Overall, the research emphasizes that the transition out of college sports is a critical moment for athlete health, and proactive measures can improve outcomes for those at higher risk due to concussion history or sport exposure.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-10-concussion-history-ncaa-athletes-yields.html
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