Exploring the double-edged nature of social media during student-athlete injury recovery and the need for digital wellness: a community-based project

Abstract

Adolescent student-athletes face unique challenges balancing sport, academics, and identity development during a critical stage of growth. These challenges often intensify after injury, disrupting physical activity, self-concept, and mental well-being. Social media, a central part of adolescent life, plays a complex role in recovery, offering both mental health benefits and risks. This multi-phase research project examined how social media use influences injured adolescent student-athletes and identified digital wellness needs. Phase one reviewed the literature on benefits, such as social support, transition assistance, and access to health information, as well as risks, such as negative commentary, identity loss, and social comparison. Findings highlight the need to integrate digital wellness education into athletic programs through healthy online support networks, transition support, mindfulness, and stigma reduction. Future research should explore interventions that help student-athletes manage recovery in the digital age. Phase two involved community workshops and webinars to share findings with athletes, parents, and coaches.