Welcome to another installment of “Making Your Mental Health a Priority,” a series in which I delve into sports' biggest names and athletes with their mental health journeys. If you’re new to my content here on The Gryd, please go back and read the previous articles to catch-up. Today, I have a special “Prime Time” treat for you all. Sit back and let’s get down to business.
Deion Sanders is one of the more electric NFL players to ever grace a football field. Arguably the best cornerback in his era, and there’s no refuting this. Two time Super Bowl champion, Hall of Famer, current head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes, all the nicknames he’s heard through his entire career. But what happens when a guy who's got all the money, fame, and cameras in his face? The price of fame came to a halt during a dark moment in Sanders’ height of being successful.
During the peak of his career in 1997, Prime was dealing with more than what money could buy. His first marriage was on the brink of divorce and nobody to turn to. “I was going through the trials and tribulations of life. I was pretty much running on fumes. I was empty, no peace, no joy. Losing hope with the progression of everything.” Now, you’re probably asking: “How can the best cornerback in the world be empty?” Glad you asked and I’ll elaborate here shortly.
In that moment, Prime attempted suicide by dropping off a 30-40 foot drop without any significant injuries. Sitting in his car and managing to defeat fate. It was then Prime turned to his faith in recovering from the maddening demons chasing him. All the money, fame, commercials which came with being an athlete became too much. Devoting his time to a faith-based lifestyle, while seeking advice from Bishop T.D. Jakes and a strong community along the way.
Deion refers to that moment which gave him a new outlook on life and taking care of his well-being. When he speaks on this subject, many current players and former peers get emotional. One of their childhood heroes dealing with the stigma of depression, which nearly took his life. Prime was able to overcome the stigma and help others in poverty overcome their mental health issues.
His faith in God gave Deion new avenues to reach the youth and his calling versus ministry. Coaching is his calling and leading the next generations of young men. When you hear and see Prime, the charisma and aura shines brighter as if he were still playing. Coaching and parenting go hand in hand; as his two sons Shedeur and Shilo have been with him every step of the way. Deion Jr, a former football player himself can be seen behind the cameras working with the social media landscape. His youngest daughter Shelomi is a member of the Lady Buffs basketball team.
With the announcement of his oldest daughter Deiondra becoming a mother, Prime was very excited and the energy is everything you’d want in a father. He ripped the NCAA for how it handled athletes and their mental health issues. “Do you really care (about mental health), or are you saying you care? Are you caring when it’s coinvent? Or when it’s profitable?” This struck ire in part of one of his players being denied a waiver upon transferring to Colorado. Using his own platform to help young men and women navigate speaks volumes. Knowing how the world spins and twirls can have ripple effects on your life.
Coach Prime has lived through the many highlights, lowlights and found redemption in leading a new generation. He to me is one of the greatest redemption stories in overcoming the stigma of depression. Money, fame, success, luxury end suits and shoes doesn’t cure unhappiness. Having faith and courage to admit you need help in a spiritual and natural essence. Prime is the example of a man who had it all, lost and found his purpose in life. No amount of fame can take away depression and suicidal thoughts. As you read this article, if you know someone who’s dealing with all the emotions, please encourage them to seek help.
You don’t have to fight this battle in silence; for it only adds more heartaches and pains holding on to whatever glimmer left in your eyes. The stigma surrounding mental health is breaking layer by layer and with you reading this article, always know there’s plenty of athletes we look up to who’ve fought similar battles. Don’t walk alone on this journey; build a strong support system and improve your overall well-being. Thank you Coach Deion “Prime” Sanders for using your platform as inspiration. Continue to uplift the youth of tomorrow and beyond each calling along the way. In closing, always make your mental health a priority.
Stai tuned.
