As mental health becomes a more prominent issue in society, the world of professional sports, including the NFL, is beginning to address the stigma surrounding mental health and provide support for players. Athletes at the professional level, such as NFL players, are often under immense pressure to perform and meet expectations, which can lead to mental health challenges.
Breaking the Stigma: Athletes Sharing Personal Stories
Many former and active NFL players are sharing their personal stories to break the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage people to seek the help they need. Examples include Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Kevin Love, and Dak Prescott, who have all faced mental health challenges and have chosen to share their stories, providing context and understanding to those who may ridicule others, like Austin Meadows, for prioritizing their mental health.
Supporting Mental Health: NFL and NFLPA Resources
The league and the NFL Players Association are offering resources for teams to address mental health. Initiatives such as the Indianapolis Colts’ Kicking the Stigma of mental health issues help raise awareness and provide support. Stigma is the number one reason people wait so long to seek help, and by addressing it, more athletes can receive the assistance they need.
Player-Led Foundations and Initiatives
NFL players have started their own foundations to focus on prevention and mental health literacy, such as The Defensive Line, co-founded by Solomon Thomas. Other players, like Cleveland Browns offensive lineman Chris Hubbard, hold annual events for mental health through their Overcoming Together Foundation. Free agent safety Douglas Middleton started Dream the Impossible Foundation to serve people with mental health issues after his best friend died by suicide in 2017.
Masculinity Norms and Mental Health
Masculinity norms, such as being strong and silent, being a tough guy, and being self-reliant, can contribute to higher risks of mental health difficulties and less help-seeking among males. Research shows that masculinity norms and adhering to traditional masculinity are not inherently bad things, but they could contribute to mental health challenges. By addressing these norms and encouraging open conversations about mental health, the NFL and its players can work together to create a more supportive environment for everyone involved.
