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When Chronic Illness Strikes: How Social Workers Support Adolescent Athletes.

  • Published In: Health & Social Work, 2026, v. 51, n. 1. P. 65 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Werner, Dena; Moore, Matt; Judge, Lawrence W 3 of 3

Abstract

This article examines the challenges faced by adolescent athletes living with chronic illnesses and highlights the role of sport social workers in supporting their physical, mental, and social well-being. It emphasizes that chronic illness during adolescence affects identity formation, mental health, and participation in academic and athletic activities, yet integrated care models addressing these needs remain limited. Sport social workers, supported by organizations like the Alliance of Sport Social Work (ASWIS), provide specialized therapeutic support and advocate for inclusive sports environments and systemic changes to improve access to comprehensive care. Their involvement spans individual interventions and policy advocacy, aiming to enhance resilience and holistic health outcomes for adolescent athletes managing chronic conditions. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Health & Social Work. 2026/02, Vol. 51, Issue 1, p65
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Education
  • Publication Date:2026
  • ISSN:0360-7283
  • DOI:10.1093/hsw/hlaf048
  • Accession Number:191655935
  • Copyright Statement:Copyright of Health & Social Work is the property of Oxford University Press / USA and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

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