The Sidelines of Silence: Mental Health in Football
Last week, I posted a blog about the importance of mental health and Mental Health Awareness Month. One of the things I touched on is how, in sports, mental health is seen as taboo. To quote myself, “When I played, ‘mental’ and ‘health’ were two words that didn’t exist near each other.”
Beyond the Physical Toll
Football is a physical game. You’re getting hit every down of every game. As the years have gone by, and we’ve watched so many of our idols spiral out post-retirement, or even mourn them as they pass on from this life, we wonder how we missed it, or we say, “Must be CTE,” without truly understanding the devastation the disease has on the brain.
Depression Affects Everyone
Depression is something that I’ve always dealt with, one of my worst bouts being when I attempted to take my own life in 2015, but it’s always been there. I remember when I was on the Bears, I went through a very bad bout of depression. At that time, I was able to work through it with an excellent therapist. But as time went on, the cloud lingered; it dimmed but never faded. Although perceived as being “on top of the world” when you’re a sports star, you’re still human; you still have to take care of yourself. I am living proof of why it matters to take the time and do the work.
A Touchdown for Mental Well-being: Introducing Mental Health Touchdown
This is why I launched Mental Health Touchdown (MHTD), a new foundation to help empower individuals to take proactive steps toward mental well-being. We do this by providing accessible, engaging resources and experiences that build resilience, foster connection with trusted “home teams,” and inspire confidence to navigate life’s challenges. Together, we will create a world where mental health is prioritized, support is within reach, and everyone has the tools to thrive.
The Vision of MHTD
At MHTD, we envision a world where individuals of all ages have the tools, confidence, and support systems they need to navigate life’s challenges. By fostering emotional resilience, empowering personal growth, and promoting mental wellness, we seek to create lasting, positive change in communities across the country.
Building Your Home Team: The MHTD Approach
Through our interactive and engaging curriculum, participants build their own “Home Team”—a trusted network of family, friends, mentors, and community members—who provide encouragement, guidance, and strength throughout life’s ups and downs.
Empowering Change: Skills for a Healthy Mind
MHTD integrates evidence-based learning strategies, Social Change Theater, and interactive discussions to help individuals develop critical life skills such as:
- Emotional regulation and self-awareness
- Effective communication and conflict resolution
- Responsible decision-making and resilience
- Confidence in seeking help and supporting others
Who Benefits From MHTD?
Our approach is age-inclusive and adaptable, ensuring that youth, teens, and adults alike benefit from programming that meets them where they are. Whether helping a child recognize emotions, guiding a teen through peer pressure, or equipping adults with tools to support youth, MHTD is committed to fostering a culture of understanding, empowerment, and proactive mental health support. By normalizing conversations about mental health, breaking down stigma, and strengthening personal support networks, we can empower individuals to lead healthy and successful lives.
Join the Movement: Learn More and Get Involved
Head on over to our website to learn more about Mental Health Touchdown and how you can get involved.