Family Perspectives: A Qualitative Examination of College Athlete Suicide During the Spring 2022 Semester

Authors

• Elaine M. Anton-Lotruglio, University at Albany, State University of New YorkFollow
• Sophia M. Burke, University of North CarolinaFollow
• Kimberly H. McManama O'Brien, Unlimited Resilience, LLC, Walpole, MA; Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJFollow

DOI

https://doi.org/10.51221/sc.jiia.2026.19.1.11

Abstract

Objective: Suicide among college athletes remains largely underexplored despite rising rates. This qualitative study aimed to explore family members' perspectives on why their loved ones died by suicide. Participants: The study included family members (N=10) of three college athletes who died by suicide in the spring 2022 semester. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted between March and July 2024. ATLAS.ti and Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis were employed to analyze the data and identify themes. Results: The data revealed three primary themes: factors contributing to the suicide crisis, presence of a suicide crisis, and university crisis response. The themes suggested a convergence of adverse conditions creating an environment conducive to suicide. Conclusion: The findings highlight the need for athletic departments to develop crisis intervention and postvention protocols to respond effectively to mental health and suicide crises. They also emphasize the importance of training for athletic department staff and athletes to recognize crises. Finally, institutions must establish mechanisms to bridge HIPAA and FERPA to facilitate improved communication. Keywords: college athlete suicide, prevention, intervention, postvention

Recommended Citation

Anton-Lotruglio, Elaine M.; Burke, Sophia M.; and McManama O'Brien, Kimberly H. (2026) "Family Perspectives: A Qualitative Examination of College Athlete Suicide During the Spring 2022 Semester," Journal of Issues in Intercollegiate Athletics: Vol. 19: Iss. 1, Article 11.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.51221/sc.jiia.2026.19.1.11
Available at: https://scholarcommons.sc.edu/jiia/vol19/iss1/11