“Making Your Mental Health a Priority: Kyrie Irving”
“Mental toughness doesn’t guarantee you’ll win, but playing without it
pretty much guarantees you won’t.” Tim Grover
One of the NBA’s best point guards we’ve ever seen with a mad handle,
bag of tricks and ability to finish at the rim, Dallas Mavericks superstar
Kyrie Irving is must-see television each night. A unique person on and
off the court, Irving hasn’t shied away from being outspoken about his
perception of life and the world. Some would see him as misunderstood
and not worth the trouble despite being very talented. There were dark
days for Irving as he navigated on his journey of redemption.
In a league of diverse personalities and chasing greatness to, a lot of
burdens are thrown on the pathways. Irving was one of many players
who suffered in silence. As human beings, we often keep thoughts to
ourselves, while fighting the inner demons of what’s more important in
maintaining a healthy well-being.
Irving dealt with the stigma of mental health in sports and how it’s
perceived with athletes. He revealed his struggles on TikTok to fans: “I
struggled with anxiety, I struggle with depression, not knowing what it
was when I was a kid. I’ve struggled with PTSD.” Typical fans would
overlook the overall message; but those who are feeling this way
resonates with them wholeheartedly.
Mental health among youth and teenagers is swept under the rug. In Irving’s case, basketball became an outlet for his silent struggles.
Media outlets have chastised Irving for his lack of availability in the
past. Making more headlines versus helping his former teams win
became more tolerant than exceedingly great talent. To fully understand
where a person is in their life can paint a better picture. He wasn’t
perfect yet trying to fight his mental health issues which stirred negative
press. Irving’s message is clear: take care of your mental health and seek
therapy. Rather it’s holistically or medicinally, how you manage your
overall well-being can further develop your healing process. Having
self-awareness is crucial in becoming a better person. We’re not perfect
and Kyrie is a good example for the younger generation who need a
voice and athlete to resonate with.
Winning is a part of greatness, but your overall mental well-being is
everlasting to achieve greatness beyond the playing fields. Kyrie Irving
has been a strong force in changing the narrative with athletes and
mental health. It may not resonate a lot of people, but one day you’ll
thank Irving for using his voice and platform to navigate others with
their mental health battles.
In closing, continue to make your mental health a priority.
Stai tuned.
