It’s OK to not be OK.<\/p>\n
Every conversation about mental health includes that important statement and a message that tough times don’t last, things will get better and help is available.<\/p>\n
The NFL and the rest of society have come a long way in dealing with mental wellness. The stigma surrounding it has changed. The “suck it up” and “tough it out” mentality are long gone.<\/p>\n
Players are encouraged to prioritize their mental well-being. They’re told to seek professional support if needed. They have more resources available to them now. The NFL and NFL Players Association in 2019 made it a requirement to have a licensed behavioral health clinician on the staff of each team.<\/p>\n
The Indianapolis Colts launched “Kicking The Stigma” in 2020, the Irsay family’s initiative to raise awareness about mental health disorders. Breaking down barriers surrounding mental health was a personal mission for Colts owner Jim Irsay, who died in May at age 65. His youngest daughter, Kalen Jackson, is leading the cause and has talked openly about dealing with anxiety.<\/p>\n
Many former and current players have opened up about their personal struggles in an effort to raise more awareness about a topic that used to be a silent illness.<\/p>\n
Former Eagles star Brian Dawkins used the platform of his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2018 to share publicly about his battle with depression. Dawkins overcame suicidal thoughts to become one of the greatest safeties in the history of the sport. Now, he’s on a crusade to educate people about mental wellness.<\/p>\n
“I have grown leaps and bounds because of the things that I’ve gone through, and that’s one of those things I went through,” Dawkins said on the stage after receiving his gold jacket. “When I say, went through, that means I came on the other side of it. So for those who are going through it right now, there’s hope. You do have hope. There is something on the other side of this. Don’t get caught up where you are. Don’t stay where you are. Keep moving. Keep pushing through.”<\/p>\n
Again, it’s OK to not be OK.<\/p>\n
Sadly, this message doesn’t always get through to someone who needs to hear it the most.<\/p>\n