Comparison of depression symptoms in young athletes according to social determinants

• Grant number: 24/12437-9
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Effective date (Start): November 01, 2024
• Effective date (End): October 31, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Physical Education
• Principal Investigator: Fabrício Eduardo Rossi
• Grantee: Mateus Sanches Jokura
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia (FCT). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Presidente Prudente. Presidente Prudente , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Introduction: Athletes are subject to numerous conditions that can affect their mental health during their sporting careers. These factors are associated with low self-esteem, pessimism, bad mood, anger, and hostility, which are often aggravated by unfavorable socioeconomic conditions. These conditions further contribute to the deterioration of athletes' mental health, increasing the risk of depressive symptoms. Therefore, understanding social determinants such as race, sex, and socioeconomic class in young athletes is necessary, as young athletes from less favored social groups may exhibit greater symptoms of depression compared to those who are more advantaged. This can lead to avoidance of sports and an increased risk of developing future depressive disorders. Objectives: Compare symptoms of depression in young athletes according to social determinants: race, sex, and socioeconomic class. Methods: Athletes from different sports (football, handball, swimming, and badminton) will be recruited, all with previous experience in national competitions. Symptoms of depression will be assessed using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Questionnaires to assess socioeconomic status, sex, and race will be administered. Athletes will be categorized into two groups: a minority group (female, non-white, and low socioeconomic status) and a dominant group (male, white, and medium to high socioeconomic status). The groups will be compared using the Mann-Whitney test, and associations will be tested using the Chi-square test. Linear regression (expressed as unstandardized coefficients [²] and their 95% confidence intervals [95%CI]) will be applied. In all analyses, the significance level will be set at p<0.05. Expected Results: It is expected to find greater symptoms of depression in athletes from minority groups (female, lower income, and non-white) and a significant association between depressive symptoms and social determinants. Scientific Impact and Relevance of the Study: Understanding the relationship between depressive symptoms and social determinants will contribute to optimizing athletes' physical and mental performance in the long term, increasing the chance of competitive success in sports, and preventing the risk of developing future diseases, such as depressive disorders, as well as the avoidance of sports.