14-05-2025
Mental health survey of League of Ireland footballers finds alarming trend among part-time players
PART-TIME players are more likely to suffer from anxiety than their full-time counterparts, according to the first-ever mental health study of League of Ireland footballers.
The SETU review, which was commissioned by the
And its main findings were 63 per cent of respondents had at least one symptom of common mental disorder, while early school leavers were more likely to suffer from anxiety.
Full-time footballers were also least likely to have mental health issues, while older players were less likely to seek help.
The report also showed that goalkeepers were more likely to have symptoms of common mental disorder than any other position.
The PFAI have sought funding from the world players' body FIFPro to put in place greater supports for members.
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LOI director Mark Scanlon said: 'This report is a welcome first step in looking into the crucially important, yet under-researched, area of mental health amongst footballers in the League of Ireland.
'As the profile of the League of Ireland continues to grow, this brings extra pressure and attention to clubs and players and it is important that we ensure that the well-being of our players is always at the forefront of any decision-making process.
'This excellent report brings together crucial stakeholders in the game, and we hope that it will be the beginning of a journey of further research into this important topic.
'We look forward to working with the PFA Ireland and SETU Ireland as well as players, coaches and match officials to help break the stigma and encourage open conversations regarding mental health and well-being.'
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PFA Ireland general secretary Stephen McGuinnness said: 'This research shows some of the additional mental health challenges faced by players in the professional football industry in Ireland.
'It highlights the necessity of the supports we already provide our members in PFA Ireland and gives some insight towards additional supports that will be needed to support players in the future.
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'We look forward to undertaking further research in this area.'
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League of Ireland Director Mark Scanlon called the report 'a welcome first step' into improving the mental health of domestic footballers
