The Reality of Social Media Harassment: You Deserve Better
As student-athletes, we’re told that social media is a powerful tool— a way to connect, share our journey, and inspire others. But too often, especially for female athletes, it can feel like the opposite.
Charlie Baker, president of the NCAA, recently pointed out a troubling trend: “The amount of harassment female athletes face on social media is unacceptable. It’s an issue we all need to confront to ensure their safety and well-being.”
He’s right. From unsolicited comments about appearance to outright threats, it can feel overwhelming to deal with this kind of negativity, all while trying to excel in your sport and balance everything else in life.
Let’s Get Real About the Impact
That “harmless joke” in your DMs? Not so harmless when it happens daily. The rude comment on your post? It starts to weigh on you. Studies show constant exposure to this kind of attention can hurt your self-esteem, mental health, and even your performance in sports.
But here’s the thing: The harassment is not your fault. Ever. And you don’t have to deal with it alone.
How to Protect Your Peace
1. Set Boundaries: Use privacy settings, block/report offenders, and don’t hesitate to take breaks from apps when you need to.
2. Find Your Circle: Talk to teammates, friends, or coaches. You’ll be surprised how many of them understand and can support you.
3. Report Serious Threats: If someone crosses the line, tell a trusted adult or authority figure right away. Your safety comes first.
4. Prioritize Your Well-Being: Remember, no comment online defines your worth or talent.
Resources for Extra Support
• National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA): nationaleatingdisorders.org
• The Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ Support): thetrevorproject.org
• Cyberbullying Hotline: cyberbullying.org
• Mental Health America (MHA): mhanational.org
You have the power to rise above the negativity and reclaim your space online. Surround yourself with those who see your value and know this: You belong, exactly as you are.
Let’s keep building each other up, one post, one game, and one conversation at a time.
If you’ve faced something like this and want to share your story or advice, we’d love to hear from you! DM us or leave a comment.
