As a well-known figure in sports media, former Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback Kirk Herbstreit recently shared that he sought therapy during his time at Ohio State in the early 90s. In an interview with The Mental Game, Herbstreit explained that at the time, support for athletes with mental health issues was not as common, causing him to fear judgment from his peers and teammates.
Despite this fear, Herbstreit recalled the anxiety he felt while seeking help, worrying about being seen and judged as he made his way to the doctor’s office in Ohio Stadium. His experience sheds light on the pressures faced by college athletes who are often young adults navigating the demands of a high-profile sport like football. These athletes face expectations that can mirror those of professionals, contributing to the stress and mental health challenges they may encounter.
Current Ohio State running back TreVeyon Henderson has recently spoken out about his own struggles with mental health, highlighting the importance of destigmatizing these issues in the world of college sports. Reflecting on his own journey, Herbstreit expressed gratitude for taking that step to prioritize his mental well-being despite concerns about being judged or seen as weak. He hopes that sharing his story will encourage other athletes to prioritize their mental health and seek support when needed.
In conclusion, Herbstreit’s experience underscores how college athletes can face numerous pressures and expectations while navigating their high-profile sport careers. It is crucial to destigmatize mental health issues in college sports to provide a safe space for athletes to prioritize their well-being without fear of judgment or discrimination.
