“You Just Saved Lives”: Struggling With Mental Health, 18YO NCAA Star’s Inspiring Journey Wins Rex Chapman’s Heart

Over the last few years, sports – and the NBA in particular – have seen a growth in mental health advocacy. It seems the movement has reached the collegiate levels too, and former NBA pro Rex Chapman is immensely proud. The #8 pick in the 1988 NBA Draft recently used his social media to promote a brave message shared by a New Mexico Lobos guard.

With many professional athletes openly discussing their mental health, it’s no longer a taboo and players no longer have to grapple with mental health issues in silence. University of Kentucky legend Rex Chapman seems to be a fan of the trend as he recently applauded an NCAA star for openly sharing his inspirational journey of navigating mental health issues.

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Braden Appelhans shared a post on his X account to explain the reason for his sudden disappearance and reduced engagement with the team. From diagnosis of his ADHD to slowly moving to a healthier and brighter side of his life, the player shared his emotional journey with his followers. “I have accepted that I have an invisible injury that I am fixing and is well on the mend! I will be back in a Lobo jersey next year!” wrote Braden on his X post. 

Resharing his post, Chapman wrote, “Well done, Braden. You just saved lives. Keep working at it. Life is hard. This is something every young person would be wise to read…”

By publicly sharing his experience, the 18-year-old might have simply shared his version of struggles with mental health issues, but along with that, he has motivated thousands more to take time for their mental wellbeing and reach out for help when needed. It’s a cause that athletes at every level have begun to take more seriously.

NBA players who advocated for mental health 

The mental aspect of sports has received more weight with the advent of social media. While it boosts confidence sometimes, trolling and negative comments impact the players physically and mentally. Los Angeles Clippers star Paul George is one of the NBA players who has been vocal about mental health issues.

George is also joined by NBA star Reggie Jackson. The duo have often mentioned how mental health and well-being should be prioritized before anything. PG13 also shared how most of their discussions begin with asking about each other’s mental well-being. Others such as Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo have also broken the silence on their mental health.

In 2018, DeMar DeRozan bravely spoke about his depression on a public forum. The Chicago Bulls forward has since been a vocal advocate for mental health programs. As the sports stars continue to break down the stigmas, their collective efforts might bring a much-needed positive shift in helping and motivating the youth. What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments section below.

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