The Life of Student Athletes & Athletes that experienced mental health issues
A day in the life of a student-athlete can be quite demanding, as it requires balancing academics, athletics, and often other personal commitments.
Johnny "Football" Manziel
Johnny Manziel, the former NFL quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner, has openly discussed his struggles with mental health issues during his football career and afterward. His experiences reflect the challenges that athletes can face when dealing with the pressures of their profession and personal life. Despite these challenges, Manziel has taken steps to address his mental health issues. He has sought professional help, opened up about his experiences to raise awareness, and expressed his commitment to taking better care of his mental health. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health support for athletes and the broader population.
Mike Tyson Talking About Life After Sports
Mike Tyson has spoken candidly about life after sports, particularly his experiences transitioning from a career in boxing to other pursuits. In various interviews and public appearances, he has discussed the challenges and opportunities that come with retiring from professional sports. One common theme in Tyson's reflections is the need to find purpose and meaning beyond the boxing ring. He has talked about the importance of staying disciplined and focused after retirement, channeling the same drive and determination that fueled his boxing career into new endeavors. Tyson has also been open about the difficulties he faced outside of the ring, including legal troubles, financial setbacks, and personal struggles. However, he has emphasized the importance of resilience and self-improvement, acknowledging his past mistakes while striving to move forward and make positive changes in his life. Overall, Tyson's reflections on life after sports underscore the challenges and opportunities that athletes face when transitioning to new chapters in their lives. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of resilience, adaptability, and perseverance in the face of change.
Coming From Experience
Athletes sharing their experiences with mental health issues can have a profound impact on individuals and society as a whole. Athletes are often seen as strong and invulnerable, but sharing their struggles with mental health challenges humanizes them and helps break down the stigma surrounding mental illness. By openly discussing their experiences, athletes show that it's okay to seek help and that mental health issues are common and treatable. Athletes have a platform and a level of influence that allows them to reach a wide audience. When they speak out about their mental health struggles, they raise awareness about the importance of mental wellness and encourage others to prioritize their mental health. Athletes are role models for many people, especially young athletes. By sharing their stories of overcoming mental health challenges, they inspire others to seek help, persevere through difficult times, and prioritize their well-being. Historically, sports culture has often emphasized toughness and resilience while downplaying the importance of mental health. Athletes speaking out can help shift this culture by promoting a more holistic approach to well-being that includes mental health awareness and support. Overall, athletes sharing their experiences with mental health can foster understanding, empathy, and positive change, both within the sports world and in society at large.
Nico Golla PLU Football Student-Athlete
Sugar Ray giving Mental Clarity to GOD/Faith and experience with addiction
Sugar Ray Leonard, a former professional boxer and multiple-time world champion, has spoken about how his faith and relationship with God have helped him gain mental clarity and strength. Leonard has faced numerous challenges in his life and career, including substance abuse and personal struggles. He has credited his faith in God for helping him overcome these difficulties and stay focused on his goals. Faith has given Leonard a sense of purpose and direction in his life. He has spoken about how his relationship with God provides him with guidance and helps him stay grounded, especially in the face of fame and success. Sugar Ray Leonard's faith has been a source of mental clarity, resilience, and purpose throughout his life. His journey serves as an example of how faith can provide support and guidance, particularly in challenging times.
Sugar Ray Leonard, the former professional boxer, has been open about his struggles with addiction, particularly to drugs and alcohol. Leonard's addictions had a significant impact on his personal and professional life. He has described how his substance abuse contributed to issues in his relationships and negatively affected his boxing career. Leonard eventually sought help for his addictions and entered recovery. He has shared his journey of overcoming addiction, including the challenges he faced and the support he received from family, friends, and professionals. Leonard emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the problem as a first step toward recovery. He believes that admitting one's struggles is crucial for seeking the necessary help and making positive changes. Since his recovery, Leonard has used his platform to raise awareness about addiction and the importance of seeking help. He encourages others who are struggling with similar issues to reach out for support.By sharing his story, Sugar Ray Leonard aims to help others who may be dealing with addiction and to show that recovery is possible with the right support and mindset.
Jordan Taff PLU Football/Baseball player
Jordan was born on March 29, 2003 at Good Samaritan Hospital in Portland, Oregon. He was the youngest child of Richard and Anna Taff. His older brother, Alex was born three years earlier on December 27, 1999. Jordan attended Dove Christian Preschool, Maplewood Elementary and Robert Gray Middle School in Southwest Portland. Jordan began his high school career at Wilson High School then moved to Lake Oswego High School. Jordan graduated from Lake Oswego HS in June 2021. Jordan accepted a scholarship to attend Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Washington and was part of their football and baseball programs. Jordan passed away at the age of 18 on Tuesday, October 12, 2021. He was a spiritual individual and passionate student who leaves behind two parents, Richard and Anna, as well as his brother, Alex, his grandparents, Felipe and Amparo Veloz and Judy and Frank Ferraro, and several aunts, uncles, and cousins. In honor we strive to spread awareness on mental health struggles.
Motion Church
Finding Faith By Jesse Canda
The beginning of my college career was a struggle. It was the peak of COVID-19, I was alone, with a whole new plate of responsibilities. I was drowning and I needed community, Motion Church is where I found it. Motion Church has 3 separate churches, the closest being in Puyallup. But the other two are in Bonney Lake and South Hill.! It is a great place to find community and gain a closer connection with God.
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