Pro Football Players Take a Timeout to Focus on Mental Health

In recent years, high-profile athletes have begun to openly discuss their mental health challenges, and 2021 has seen some notable figures taking significant steps to prioritize their well-being. Among these athletes are individuals from various sports, including Usain Bolt, Naomi Osaka, Simone Biles, Kevin Love, and Michael Phelps. Now, NFL players are joining the conversation, shedding light on the importance of mental health in their field.

October was a pivotal month in the NFL, but not for the usual reasons of touchdowns or tackles. Three players made headlines for stepping back from the game to focus on their mental health. Brandon Knight of the Baltimore Ravens and Calvin Ridley of the Atlanta Falcons announced they would sit out the entire season, while Lane Johnson of the Philadelphia Eagles returned after a three-game break.

Lane Johnson’s Journey

Lane Johnson was the first to share his journey on social media as he returned to the field in mid-October. He expressed gratitude for the support he received during his time away, stating, “Depression and anxiety are things I’ve dealt with for a long time and have kept hidden from my friends and family. If you’re reading this and struggling, please know you are not alone….” In an emotional interview with Fox Sports, Johnson described the overwhelming feelings he experienced: “Feels like doom. I just want to run away and not come back… It got so bad … I started to throw up blood.”

Brandon Knight and Calvin Ridley Speak Out

Brandon Knight, who recently joined the Ravens, shared his own struggles on Twitter, saying, “I’ve decided to take a break from football to address my mental health. Although it was a difficult decision, it was a necessary one to be back home with my family. I look forward to returning next season.” Calvin Ridley echoed similar sentiments, stating, “These past few weeks have been very challenging… I need to step away from football at this time and focus on my mental wellbeing.”

Breaking the Stigma

Historically, mental health has often been a taboo subject in sports, especially in the NFL. Legendary quarterback Terry Bradshaw battled depression throughout his career yet only spoke about it long after his retirement. The current generation of players, however, is breaking down these barriers, exemplifying that mental health struggles do not equate to weakness.

The shift in attitudes towards mental health can be attributed to increased awareness and initiatives like the Indianapolis Colts’ “Kicking the Stigma” campaign. Johnson’s heartfelt messages indicate a growing acceptance in the league, and teammates like Tajae Sharpe emphasize the support within the community: “We are keeping him in our prayers… his mental health is number one.”

This openness about mental health is crucial, as it encourages more athletes and individuals to seek help without shame. The strength it takes to face these challenges is immense, and players like Knight, Ridley, and Johnson are leading the charge in normalizing these conversations in the sports world.

A Supportive Environment

In a time when mental health discussions are becoming more commonplace, athletes are proving that even the strongest among us can face vulnerabilities. The bravery displayed by these players paves the way for a more supportive environment, where acknowledging mental health is seen as a strength rather than a weakness.

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Summary

In 2021, several NFL players have bravely stepped forward to prioritize their mental health, marking a significant shift in the conversation around mental well-being in sports. Players like Lane Johnson, Brandon Knight, and Calvin Ridley have openly discussed their challenges, promoting a culture of support and acceptance in an industry that has historically shied away from such discussions. Their courage encourages others to seek help and highlights that mental health is a critical aspect of overall well-being.