By Stacey D. Stewart, CEO of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD)
In sports, student-athletes are often celebrated for their physical prowess, discipline, and dedication. Yet, beneath the surface, many grapple with challenges that are less visible but equally critical: mental health struggles, substance use, and the perilous path leading to impaired driving.
The Hidden Epidemic
Recent studies have highlighted a concerning trend among collegiate athletes. According to the NCAA Student-Athlete Health and Wellness Study (2023), 71.7% of student-athletes reported alcohol use within the past year, and 25.9% admitted to using marijuana (Patrick et al., 2023). Binge drinking continues to be a significant issue, with rates reaching as high as 55% among male student-athletes (American College Health Association, 2023).
Beyond substance use, mental health concerns among student-athletes have surged. The same NCAA study found that 44% of female and 17% of male athletes reported feeling constantly overwhelmed by all they had to do (NCAA, 2023). Anxiety, sleep deprivation, and performance pressures compound the risks associated with substance use, making impaired driving a dangerous reality.
Research from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) further underscores the link between impaired driving and mental health. Individuals struggling with anxiety and depression are at higher risk of self-medicating with alcohol or drugs, which can lead to impaired decision-making, including getting behind the wheel (NHTSA, 2023). Alarmingly, drunk driving fatalities have risen 33% from 2019 to 2022, reaching 13,524 deaths in 2022 (NHTSA, 2023).
The Role of MADD Sports and NDUR for Athletes
Recognizing the unique challenges student-athletes face, MADD launched MADD Sports, an initiative to leverage the influence of sports figures to promote safe choices and advocate against impaired driving.
In collaboration with NDUR for Athletes, MADD Sports offers specialized programs tailored for student-athletes. These programs focus on mental health awareness, substance use prevention, and promoting a culture of responsibility. NDUR’s evidence-based approach educates athletes on the dangers of impaired driving while equipping them with the tools to make healthier choices on and off the field.
A Call to Action
The intersection of mental health, substance use, and impaired driving among student-athletes is a multifaceted issue requiring a comprehensive approach. It demands the collective efforts of educational institutions, athletic departments, coaches, parents, and athletes. By fostering open dialogues, providing accessible resources, and promoting a culture that prioritizes mental well-being, we can address the root causes leading to substance use and impaired driving.
MADD is committed to supporting student-athletes through education, advocacy, and partnerships. Together, we can create an environment where our athletes thrive safely and make choices that reflect their dedication to their sport and overall well-being.
Stacey D. Stewart is the CEO of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), an organization dedicated to ending drunk driving, supporting victims of this violent crime, and preventing underage drinking and other drug use.
Cited Sources
- American College Health Association. (2023). National College Health Assessment III: Undergraduate Student Reference Group Data Report Spring 2023. Retrieved from www.acha.org
- Research-Based Evidence on Impaired Driving. Decision Analyst, May 2023.
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). (2023). Traffic Safety Facts: Alcohol-Impaired Driving. Retrieved from www.nhtsa.gov
- NCAA. (2023). Student-Athlete Health and Wellness Study. NCAA Research. Retrieved from www.ncaa.org
- Patrick, M. E., Miech, R. A., Johnston, L. D., & O’Malley, P. M. (2023). Monitoring the Future Panel Study Annual Report: National Data on Substance Use Among Adults Ages 19 to 60, 1976-2022. Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan. Retrieved from www.monitoringthefuture.org
