Strength Isn’t Silence: A Letter to Every Athlete Struggling in Silence

As a student-athlete who chose to pursue two sports in college, I've faced challenges that tested not only my body but the limits of my mental resilience. Throughout high school, I silently wrestled with depression, anxiety, and ADHD for years, which permeated into every aspect of my life. My biggest regret is waiting until I reached my breaking point to finally ask for help; I felt like I was drowning. It wasn't until I allowed those around me to see behind the facade I had so carefully crafted and learned of their unspoken struggles that I began to feel like I wasn't alone, which is why I share my story with anyone who will listen.

The path towards healing is never quick nor straightforward; it took over a year before I began to find pieces of myself I had thought lost. Despite the multitude of people I was seeing and the different methods I was trying, nothing was getting better, and my isolation deepened in spite of the people surrounding me. Yet, through it all, I would not have made it through that time without the steadfast support of those that cared about me, who stuck by me no matter how hard I pushed them away.

The most important truth to remember is that you are not alone. Even those whose lives appear effortless could be carrying the heaviest of unseen burdens. If I could offer you only one piece of advice, it would be this: do not be afraid to speak up. Being vulnerable is not a sign of weakness; it is an immensely courageous thing most people will not do. Opening up about your struggles and admitting you are not perfect is uncomfortable, but in doing so, you will inspire others to do the same.

You are, and will always be, so much more than your performance in your sport.