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If you were to ask what connects renowned athletes like Usain Bolt, Naomi Osaka, Simone Biles, Kevin Love, and Michael Phelps, many would likely point out their shared courage in discussing mental health issues. These sports icons have opened up about their personal struggles, and now, NFL players are following suit.
October proved to be significant for the NFL, not in terms of touchdowns or tackles, but in how players are prioritizing their mental well-being. Three notable athletes have made the brave decision to step away from the game temporarily to focus on their mental health. Brandon Knight of the Baltimore Ravens and Calvin Ridley from the Atlanta Falcons announced they would sit out the entire season, while Lane Johnson of the Philadelphia Eagles returned to play after a three-game break.
Lane Johnson was the first to share his experience upon returning to the field. He tweeted, “Thank you for your understanding and support over the last two weeks. I’m grateful for the positive messages as I worked to restore my personal life. Depression and anxiety have been part of my life for a long time, hidden from those close to me. If you’re struggling, know you’re not alone…”
In a candid interview with Fox Sports, Johnson expressed the severity of his struggles, describing feelings of despair and physical symptoms that escalated to alarming levels. “It got so bad…I started to throw up blood,” he admitted.
Brandon Knight, who recently joined the Ravens, also took to Twitter on October 21 to explain his decision to step away mid-season. “I’ve decided to take a break from football to address my mental health. Although it was a tough choice, it was necessary to be with my family. I look forward to returning next season.”
Calvin Ridley rounded out this month of honesty with his own statement. “These past few weeks have been challenging, and as much as I’d love to compete with my teammates, I need to focus on my mental wellbeing,” he tweeted. “This will help me become the best version of myself.”
Historically, NFL players have not always felt comfortable discussing mental health. Terry Bradshaw, a Hall of Famer with the Pittsburgh Steelers, battled depression throughout his career but didn’t speak about it until years after his retirement in 1984. His silence reflects a stark difference compared to today, where 87% of Americans now recognize that mental illness should not carry stigma.
Despite this progress, discussing mental health remains a daunting task for many athletes. Johnson shared his initial reluctance to speak out, revealing, “I was ashamed, to be honest. In the NFL, where it’s a gladiator-type sport, it’s rarely discussed yet deeply felt.”
Fortunately, these players exist in an era where mental health struggles do not equate to weakness. Johnson highlighted the supportive messages he received, indicating a shift in the culture. Similarly, Ridley’s teammate, Tajae Sharpe, expressed empathy, stating, “We are here for Calvin, and his mental health is what matters most.”
This growing acceptance has led to initiatives like the Indianapolis Colts’ “Kicking the Stigma” campaign, promoting awareness and understanding of mental health. As conversations about mental illness have evolved from being taboo to openly discussed, we are witnessing a remarkable shift.
Athletes like Knight, Ridley, and Johnson are showing that even the strongest individuals can face mental health challenges. Their willingness to share their experiences is a significant step forward in normalizing discussions around mental well-being. The fight against mental illness often requires immense strength, reminding us that everyone has their own battles, even when they appear invincible.
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Summary:
NFL players are increasingly stepping forward to discuss their mental health struggles, with Brandon Knight, Calvin Ridley, and Lane Johnson leading the conversation. Their openness marks a significant cultural shift in sports, highlighting the importance of mental well-being and support within the athletic community.
Keyphrase: NFL Players Mental Health
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