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The topic of mental health in sports has become increasingly prevalent in recent years, with many athletes coming forward about their own struggles. Athletes such as Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kevin Love, DeMar DeRozan, Andrew Toles, and Delonte West have all opened up about their mental health. It is clear that athletes are not immune to mental health struggles, and more needs to be done to support them. The pressures of being in the public eye and performing at the highest level can take a toll on an individual’s mental health, leading to a mental health crisis. As a society, we need to take action to support these athletes and provide them with the resources they need to overcome their struggles.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s experience during the 2020 NBA season highlights the pressure and scrutiny that athletes face. In an interview with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, he stated, “No matter where I am, everybody is watching me. I don’t have the time to turn it off.” This constant attention and pressure can take a toll on an athlete’s mental health. Fortunately, Giannis was able to find support from Kevin Love and others. He stated, “Somebody helped put me in a place again to appreciate the things I have. That comes with being who I am and to be okay with myself.”
Kevin Love also shared his experience with a panic attack during a game in 2018 with his former team, the Cleveland Cavaliers. In his essay for The Players’ Tribune, he described feeling like his “brain was trying to climb out of my head.” Love’s openness about his struggles helped to bring attention to mental health in the sports world. He stated, “It’s hard to talk about these things… But it’s really important that we do.” Love was unable to re-enter the game as he felt he physically could not do it. Eventually, Love was checked out of the Cleveland Clinic after the game, as there was no underlying injury, and the Cavaliers would go on to find him the therapist he needed.
DeMar DeRozan has also been open about his struggles with depression and anxiety. In an interview with the Toronto Star in 2018, he stated, “It can be easy to dismiss the mental health struggles of a person who’s famous, wealthy, and very successful.” DeRozan’s comments highlight the stigma that still surrounds mental health, even for those who appear to have it all.
Andrew Toles was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia and received support from the Los Angeles Dodgers. The team provided him with health insurance and mental health services to help treat his conditions. This support allowed Toles to focus on his health and well-being.
Delonte West also struggled with bipolar disorder and received support from Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban. According to ESPN, Cuban picked up West at a gas station and helped him get back on his feet. West’s journey highlights the importance of providing support and resources to athletes in need.
So, what can be done to help athletes who experience mental health crises? First, there needs to be more awareness and education about mental health in the sports world. This can help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage athletes to seek help when needed.
Second, teams and organizations can provide resources and support for athletes. This can include access to mental health professionals, counseling services, and health insurance. By providing these resources, athletes can receive the care and support they need to manage their mental health.
Finally, athletes themselves can help by speaking out about their experiences. By sharing their struggles, they can help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage others to seek help when needed.
In conclusion, mental health is an important issue that affects athletes as well as society as a whole. More needs to be done to support athletes who experience mental health crises. By raising awareness, providing resources, and encouraging openness and dialogue, we can help ensure that athletes receive the care and support they need to thrive both on and off the field.
For more sports coverage from MLB, NBA, NFL, to NCAA contact Julian Ojeda at 786-501-9082 or via email julian@communitynewspapers.com
To stay tuned for more Sports Reports follow @jowepafm on Twitter
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