Sweep Stigma! Mackenzie Fitzpatrick

Being a student athlete is hard enough, but doing it all with a chronic illness?  That’s what Mackenzie Fitzpatrick, a softball player for the University of Connecticut,  struggled with as she battled to keep up a positive appearance despite suffering from depression.  Having recognized how stigma kept her from getting all of the support she needed early in her struggle, she has become a mental health advocate fighting to end the stigma that surrounds mental illness, especially for student-athletes.  Mackenzie shares her story and insights on this episode of Unit3d.

This conversation with Mackenzie took place just days before JMU softball player, Lauren Bernett, took her life. Our thoughts are with Lauren’s teammates, coaches, friends and family. 

We hope Mackenzie’s story reaches those who are struggling and suffering in silence, afraid to reach out and ask for help. 

You are so needed, so loved, please don’t leave us.