Athletes, Thoughts of Suicide, & Finding Light Through the Darkness
Team Sidelined
English - March 09, 2021 14:00 - 1 hour - 41.9 MB - ★★★★★ - 8 ratingsSports covid impact athletes pandemic sports sidelined covid-19 athletics covid sports mental health sports Homepage Download Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Overcast Castro Pocket Casts RSS feed
It’s not something we talk about much. Maybe we don’t know how to start the conversation. Maybe we’re afraid we might get in over our heads. Maybe it’s just not on our radar because we don’t have personal experience with it. But with 1 in 4 young people having considered suicide during the pandemic (Source: CDC), suicide really is something we can’t afford to ignore.
In this extremely candid interview, former NFL linebacker Marcus Smith II shares his personal experience with suicidal thoughts and tells the story of the day he came within inches of taking his own life despite having an incredible support system. He opens up about the feelings he had and the overwhelming burden of his internal dialogue which he struggled for years to confront out loud. Marcus encourages others who are deeply struggling to “take the mask off”, and be courageous enough to voice their pain and get help. In this episode, Marcus discusses:
The tendency of athletes to mask their painThe dangers of habitually pushing deep pain to the sideAdvice for athletes struggling with hopelessnessContending with pre-conceived ideas on seeking professional helpThe power of letting the emotions out through therapy Redefining “mental toughness”, a culture shift we can all be a part ofHow athletic programs can foster a healthy culture surrounding mental healthThe power of finding your purpose beyond athletic performance Perspective on how personal pain can be redeemed for good Advice for the support network of an athlete deeply strugglingDon’t miss this incredibly insightful interview which is ultimately a story of hope and healing. Please note this is a very sensitive interview and may be emotionally triggering for those with personal or second hand experience wit suicide or suicidal thoughts. Be prepared to talk through your feelings with someone you trust after listening.
♥️ If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, available 24/7, at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for support or text TALK to 741-741 to reach a Crisis Counselor.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: