“I ended up with nothing to do. No training and no work. Worse than covid times. I was desperate!” The effects of injuries on the mental well-being of rugby players

Abstract

Rugby is regarded as a collision sport rather than merely a contact sport. Players are growing in size and weight and improving in speed. This may lead to more severe injuries, including head injuries, which may have an impact on athletes' mental health. Many doubt the sport's future and recommend regulatory changes that could transform the game as we know it. Physical scars from injuries are plainly apparent and can be treated with medical interventions and therapies. Psychological scars are less visible, harder to identify, and more challenging to address, with potentially longer-lasting consequences. The stigma associated with mental health often discourages athletes from seeking help or speaking openly about their struggles. To gain a better understanding of this issue, eight rugby players (two female, six male) were interviewed in depth about their lived experiences of mental health concerns after experiencing an injury. The study also examined the support they received during their recovery and identified areas for more effective support. A reflexive thematic analysis of the interview transcripts revealed significant gaps between injured players' psychological and emotional needs and the current support available. The findings shed light on the profound psychological impact of rugby injuries, providing valuable insights to improve player welfare. Based on these findings, the study offers actionable recommendations to mitigate the mental health impact of injuries among rugby players and to foster a more supportive recovery environment.