As head of the research committee for the Athlete Mental Health Alliance (AMHA), Robert Elsner, professor and chair of the psychology department at Samford University, plays a pivotal role in advancing the understanding of mental health challenges faced by athletes. With over 20 years of experience in sport psychology and a background as a college lacrosse player, Elsner’s work has bridged both academic and personal experiences to shape his contributions to the field.
The AMHA is a national nonprofit organization which focuses on gathering and disseminating research that supports the alliance’s mental health principles and legislative initiatives. By aligning its efforts with the latest findings, the committee ensures that AMHA’s advocacy is grounded in robust, up-to-date data. Under Elsner’s leadership, the committee has spearheaded initiatives to further the understanding of athlete mental health and the necessary steps to protect it at all levels.
“AMHA focuses on providing solid, peer-reviewed research to inform lawmakers of the real needs athletes face, from elementary school to elite levels,” said Elsner. “Without this research, laws can’t fully protect those they aim to serve, especially vulnerable student athletes under various physical and mental pressures.”
This summer, Elsner and several AMHA members, including Samford student-athletes Caroline Donovan and Dominic Ganley, participated in an advocacy trip to Washington, D.C. During the trip, the group lobbied Congress to recognize athlete mental health as a basic human right, engaging in over 20 legislative visits. The trip, part of AMHA’s second annual Athlete Mental Health Advocacy Day, gathered 68 participants who took part in discussions and Capitol Hill visits.
“The trip demonstrated how people from different backgrounds can come together to work on a set of issues that otherwise might be left with no champion,” said Elsner. “Our students were able to see the integration of focus on athletics, mental health, faith, economics and politics.”
Elsner's background also includes leading international research projects and teaching family and community medicine. His unique insights, informed by his academic career and experiences as an athlete, make him a leading voice in mental health advocacy within the sports industry. At Samford, Elsner has been an influential figure, contributing to the university's Psychology department and shaping future professionals in the field.
“We focus on empowering athletes to use their voices to remind policymakers of the humanity and vulnerability of all athletes,” said Elsner. “Too often, athletes are treated like objects rather than individuals with full lives outside of their sports, needing support to protect their mental health on and off the field.”
AMHA is dedicated to addressing the mental health needs of athletes by advocating for changes in both legislation and practice. With its comprehensive approach, the alliance seeks to create a supportive framework that addresses the unique mental health challenges athletes face while elevating their voices to drive systemic change.
