(Image from: Gregory Bull/AP)
It is a topic that has become less and less taboo as he years go by. And for he greater good as well. Mental health is something that affects everyone. Whether you know it or not, everyone is going through something on the inside. In recent years, the conversation on the mental health of athletes and people in general has increased.
In 2018, Cleveland Cavaliers star Kevin Love along with then-San Antonio Spurs sat Demar Derozan, spoke out about their struggles with mental health. In an article for The Players Tribune, Love detailed a panic attack the he had experienced after the halftime of one of his games with the Cavaliers. Love has said that he has dealt with anxiety and depression over the course of his life and that he was suffering in silence for most of his life. This article increased the topic of mental health in general, more particularly amongst men and boys. Love won the Arthur Asche Courage Award at the ESPYS in 2020 for his mental health advocacy.
Recently, during the Tokyo Olympics, USA Gymnastics superstar Simone Biles pulled out of a handful of events, such as the individual all-around competition, vault, and uneven bars.
Known as the greatest gymnast of all time, it was well known that Biles had high expectations for her from herself and from others. Biles said that she felt was she was carrying “the weight of the world” on her shoulders during the Tokyo Olympics. That kind of pressure does take its toll on one’s mind. Biles’ decision has garnered praise from both fellow athletes and fans because she prioritized her mental health over her performance.
Biles has since started a post-Olympic tour that includes the topic of mental health advocacy.
Many other athletes such as Michael Phelps and Andrew Luck have also been open about their struggles with mental health. Andrew LI know retired from the NFL before the 2019 season due to suffering multiple injuries throughout his career. He has described the process as a “constant cycle” of injury, pain, and rehabilitation that had been constantly affecting his mental wellness. Although many fans first reaction was frustration, Luck was commended for doing what was best for him no matter what other people may think. Michael Phelps went through a tough period in 2014, when he was arrested for his second DUI. This resulted in Phelps receiving a 6 month ban in competition. After this, Phelps was checked into a rehab clinic to seek help for depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Today, Phelps is regarded as one of the greatest Olympians of all time and shares his story with others that may be struggling.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, do not hesitate to reach out for help from a loved one or your local mental health services.
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