Sports
In today’s sports landscape, mental strength is just as crucial as physical performance. Over the years, it has become increasingly clear that mental health plays a fundamental role in an athlete’s ability to succeed at the highest level. This was recently underscored by an Indianapolis Colts player, who admitted to struggling with mental health issues during the past season.
The player revealed that he spent 48 days in a mental health facility to address his struggles. At the time, his absence was attributed to “personal matters,” but it has since become clear that his mental health was the primary concern. His time away from the field impacted the Indianapolis Colts, who had to navigate a portion of the season without their starting offensive tackle.
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Inside the mental health battle of an NFL veteran
Braden Smith reveals his constant fight to recover from his mental health issue, where he even considered suicide as a way out. The offensive tackle addressed that his illness is related to his obsessive-compulsive disorder, which causes the struggle.
“I did not care about playing football. I didn’t care about hanging out with my family, with my wife, with my newborn son. I was a month away from putting a bullet through my brain.” Said Smith in an interview with the Indianapolis Star. “I was physically present, but I was nowhere to be found.” He added.
Smith confirmed that he spent 48 days in a treatment facility to address his mental health challenges, a decision that ultimately helped motivate his return. Although there were significant doubts about whether he would play football again, Smith rejoined the Indianapolis Colts at training camp, signaling a promising step forward in his recovery.
Braden Smith also spoke with Stephen Holder of ESPN, sharing the emotional and mental shift he experienced during his return to football. Reflecting on the previous season, Smith said, “I was going through the motions, but I didn’t feel like that. It was that edge that players have, I didn’t have that last year. I didn’t feel that last year.”
Nevertheless, as training camp begins and the season draws near, Smith explained that his motivation has taken a new direction. “This year, instead of obsessing over other things, I can obsess about my craft and turn a negative into a positive,” he told ESPN.
Overcoming mental struggles with the support of family
One thing is clear: family support played a pivotal role in the recovery process. However, for those closest to the situation, it can be an emotionally difficult journey to navigate. In Smith’s case, the key figure in his recovery was his wife, Courtney, who took charge and helped him seek the professional help he needed. Her support proved to be a turning point in his path to healing.
His renewed focus signals a determined effort to reclaim his edge and contribute meaningfully on the field. For now, the Indianapolis Colts are preparing for the upcoming season, which kicks off on September 7, when they face the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium.
This news was originally published on this post .
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