NBA athlete speaks out on mental health

Player brings up solid points about power of talking about issues

Mental health is one of the least talked-about issues in America.

We talk about the subject, and around the subject, but not many actually share their own experiences publicly, especially athletes.

Cleveland Cavaliers forward Kevin Love, however, is bucking that notion, sharing his own experiences in a personal essay on www.theplayerstribune.com.

In it, Love documents his personal journey, from an initial panic attack during a game to seeing a therapist and working on the underlying issues.

He notes, “I’d never heard of any pro athlete talking about mental health, and I didn’t want to be the only one.”

But the experience was a positive one, surprising Love.

He writes that one of the most powerful things he has learned so far is the value of discussing problems with someone else, talking about issues and concerns, which in turn helps one understand them, and make them more manageable.

And let’s pause for a moment and consider that. How often do we face an issue, challenge or problem, and try to do so alone? We shoulder these heavy burdens alone, letting them bury us, when in reality, friends, family and/or therapists can help us tremendously. And to start the process, all it takes is simply speaking out and sharing concerns.

Love also brings up a powerful point: “Everyone is going through something that we can’t see.” He reminds readers that “mental health is an invisible thing, but it touches all of us at some point or another. It’s part of life.”

And that’s important to remember when interacting with others. We never know what someone else is going through, because all we initially see is what’s on the surface. What’s percolating underneath, however, is another matter entirely. Therefore, it helps to have a measure of empathy and perspective on each interaction.

Ultimately, Love noted we need create a better environment for discussing mental health, because talking about issues can help one recover from said issues.

Love is speaking out, and using his position to start a conversation that needs to happen. It’s a good idea, and one worth working toward.

DO YOU AGREE WITH THIS OR NOT?