Debunking the Myths That Surround Professional Sports Figures – Part 4

Before we dive into Myth #4, let’s recap. In Myth #1 I debunked the myth that athletes are always cocky, not to be confused with confidence, a necessary ingredient even to make it to the pros. In Myth #2 I debunked the myth that athletes are not available to the public. We saw the many philanthropic activities they’re involved in, and how many endeavors are done behind the scenes. For Myth #3 I debunked the myth that pro sports figures don’t have money problems because they make so much of it. That was an easy one because the stories about broke athletes are all over the internet.

Now let’s tackle Myth #4, the final myth on my list which says athletes never struggle emotionally or mentally. If we only knew how many pro sports figures struggle in these two areas. Most are ashamed to admit it because of the perception that it makes them appear weaker or less of a man. I say hogwash. I admire men who have the strength to admit their struggles, especially publicly.

 Recently, Dez Bryant has exposed his battle with depression, anxiety, and panic attacks. You can say what you want about Dez, but at least he’s man enough to admit his struggles. Michael Phelps was depressed and suicidal after his second DUI. NBA legend Jerry West admitted publicly, and in his book, West by West: My Charmed, Tormented Life, that he struggled for decades with severe bouts of depression and low self-esteem. People told him he was brave for telling his story, but Jerry says it’s more a matter of simply being honest.

New York Giants wide receiver Brandon Marshall was diagnosed with borderline personality disorder in 2011. He’s been an outspoken advocate of mental health issues, speaking to NFL owners, and removing, or at least reducing the stigma associated with mental illness. After all, one in five Americans struggles with some form of mental health issue. The one mantra to remember is this: It’s okay not to be okay. That mantra applies pro sports figures too! They’re just humans on a public platform.

Society dictates that men especially are never supposed to expose their weak side, their tender side. They’re told, “Buck up and be a man. Keep a stiff upper lip. Real men don’t cry,” and all that nonsense. It’s the truly strong men who demonstrate their fearlessness and vulnerability in spite of locker room talk, water cooler talk, and public shame.

 Well, that concludes the four myths surrounding pro sports figures. I hope debunking each myth has given you a more profound respect for athletes and their human side, and not their gladiator side.

Michelle Hill, Your Legacy Builder at Winning Proof, is a sports ghostwriter, book collaborator, and author. She works exclusively with pro athletes, coaches, team owners, and other sports professionals, to march their book idea from concept to publication, from the Red Zone to the End Zone. You have a story to tell! Contact Michelle at [email protected] or call (714) 797.3731.