Neurodiversity and the mental health and wellbeing of elite athletes
New research lead authored by Erin, alongside a host of esteemed colleagues, discussed the need to address gaps in research to date surrounding neurodiversity among athletes, given the central role of mental health and wellbeing to athletic performance.
Published in British Journal of Sports Medicine, Hoare and colleagues discussed neuroinclusion in elite sport is lagging, considering the progress observed in education and health.
“What we have seen is rapid progress in health, education and disability, driven by the advocacy and efforts of the neurodivergent community in shifting the way in which differences are recognized and supported.”
“This is exceptionally timely research. In December 2025, for example, Australian psychologists will be mandated by the Psychology Board of Australia - for the first time - to ensure neurodiversity related knowledge as a core competency”.
“We now have the opportunity to learn from this progress, and ensure the high performance sporting sector is well equipped to provide neurodiversity responsive sporting systems.”
Erin highlighted a central component of this research is recognising the essential role of neurodiversity for the mental health and wellbeing of athletes.
“Athletes report their mental health is directly related to performance. We also have a somewhat limited evidence base for effective clinical interventions specifically for athlete cohorts. So there is an incredible opportunity to both embed neuroinclusive practices for athletic performance, and to broaden the potential mental health supports and interventions for athlete mental health.”
Neurodiversity informed practices could support athletic performance and mental health