Ryan Garcia, Who Battled Anxiety and Depression, Urges People to Find Solace in “Friends and Family”

The world at large knows the rough seas Ryan Garcia has stormed into. He had the looks, charisma, and social media reach. He enjoyed a successful run as an undefeated former Lightweight champion. But sadly, Gervonta Davis‘ body shot halted the soiree. Now Garcia is looking for a fresh start. As the young boxer travels across to find the light at the end of the tunnel, he waves a flag to everyone urging them to take care of demons lurking in the bottomless depths of their minds.

After all, he had his demons to care for a few years ago. Thankfully, Ryan Garcia has always been open about concerns related to mental health issues. Two years ago, the world was at his feet. He knocked out London Olympic gold medalist Luke Campbell on January 2, 2021, and earned his first world title, the (Interim) WBC Lightweight. However, the happiness proved short-lived.

Four months after the Campbell fight, it was announced that the newly crowned champion would defend his title from Javier Fortuna. Thus setting the stage for a challenger to face reigning champion, Devin Haney. But a few days after the announcement, on April 24, Garcia announced a pullout from the Fortuna bout. The reason he cited was ‘to manage his health and well-being.’

Speak up! Ryan Garcia urges

Often using the vast following he enjoys across various social media platforms to convey his messages on the issue, Ryan Garcia shared a heartwarming message on Instagram today. He said, “From my heart if you are dealing with anxiety issues. DO NOT FEEL ALONE. You are not alone, and I relate to your struggle. Please talk to your friends and family. I promise so many have dealt with this same issue, and talking can help you realize a lot of things.”

Though Garcia tried to return by October of that year, an injury further added to the delay. Finally, after a gap of fifteen months, he returned to face Emmanuel Tagoe on April 9, last year. Speaking to Dan Canobbio, he said, “I was deep in it.. didn’t think I was gonna live… was so….. and [I] I went [into] bad habits… started drinking. I wanted to kill myself at one point. I was so paralyzed in my mind I couldn’t get out of it…”

The fighter he is, Ryan Garcia, eventually made a comeback with professional help. He often states mishandling stress, such as trying to juggle a slew of responsibilities at the same time without any adequate support, is one of the reasons that led to his depression. That deep understanding of the harrowing experience probably turned him into one of the most recognizable faces to speak on mental health struggles. Hats off to ‘KingRy’!

Read More: “Romero Is Food for Everyone”: Fans React as Ryan Garcia Teases a Speedy Ring Return

Who, in your opinion, should Ryan Garcia fight next? Additionally, what are your thoughts on the rising number of reported mental health struggles around the world? Share your views and opinions with us in the comments below.

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