Young Pacific Male Athletes and Positive Mental Wellbeing

Abstract

Background: Recent studies and increased media reporting across Australasia have linked young Pacific male elite athletes to depression, suicide, and other adverse mental health-related events. Despite these events, little is known about positive mental wellbeing and young Pacific male athletes. Aim: This research aimed to explore young Pacific male athletes’ perceptions of what contributes to positive mental wellbeing and peak performance at an elite level of sport. It is believed that this research will provide useful information to better support the mental health and wellbeing needs of young Pacific male athletes. Methodology: This qualitative study conducted in-depth face-to-face interviews with 20 young Pacific males (16-24 years) engaged in elite rugby league or rugby union programmes in Auckland. Interviews were semi-structured and underpinned by the Health Research Council of New Zealand’s (2014) Pacific Health Research Guidelines. A grounded theory approach was used for data analysis. Findings: Participants defined positive mental wellbeing as being holistic and emphasised the importance of family support and reciprocity, a well-balanced life, performing well, and personal development. Risk factors for athletes’ mental wellbeing included familial pressures, a lack of alternative activities and interests away from sports, difficulties transitioning to an elite level of sport, performance-related issues such as dips in form, injuries, alcohol misuse, and stigma around mental illness. Key protective factors for positive mental wellbeing for these athletes included family support, the support of their significant other, Christian faith and spirituality, the ‘brotherhood’, a secure ‘Pacific athlete’ identity, personal development, and supportive sports organisations. This study recognised that sports organisations, schools, Pacific families, and Pacific communities need to engage more actively with young Pacific males to reduce stigma around mental illness, increase awareness of mental health, and openly discuss issues around mental wellbeing. Conclusion: Recommendations from this study provide evidence-based strategies for promoting and supporting positive mental wellbeing among young Pacific male athletes. This research may be of benefit for elite sports organisations and their staff, schools, sports coaches, sport administrators, mental health professionals, health services, researchers, Pacific communities, and Pacific families to ensure the young Pacific males of this country thrive and flourish.