“It’s okay sometimes to hold some stuff in, but if you hold it in too long, then it can become overwhelming.” – LeBron James. Physical resilience and strength are often seen as the keys to success in sports. Words like physicality and conditioning are used so frequently that, as fans, we forget about the mental challenges athletes face. These athletes endure grueling training, high-pressure situations, and constant expectations to perform at their best. But what happens when the toughest challenge isn’t physical? What if the hardest battles are the ones no one sees? A UConn Huskies star player opens up, revealing the mental struggles that are just as demanding as any physical obstacle.

UConn Huskies’ star shooting guard recently talked to

UCTV Sports editor, Avery Becker, about an often overlooked struggle. Her words shine as a beacon not just for the thousands pursuing her field, but also for the millions of Americans struggling with mental health issues.

In her interview with Becker, Fudd highlighted that basketball is “90% mental and 10% physical.” While it is easy to assume that college athletes get by with just their physical conditioning, the real struggles begin mentally.

“I have always prided myself on being mentally tough. I was just, like, oh I’m fine, I don’t need it,” Fudd stated. Fudd has a history of injuries to her name. The UConn star missed out on 33 games over her first two seasons in college basketball. Despite that, the 22-year-old always considered herself someone who’s mentally fit. But Fudd still reiterated the importance of seeking aid, stating, “You have nothing to lose. You could talk to them, you could hate them, but you go out and you try it. It could be the best thing in the world for you.”

Fudd’s advocacy for mental health doesn’t just resound within the court. Her message is emphatic, resonating with her fellow Americans as well.

The Unseen Epidemic: Mental Health in America

According to the National Institutes of Health, approximately 57.8 million American adults-roughly one in five-live with mental health issues. Out of these 57.8, 21.1 million have experienced at least one episode of major depression. Despite these staggering numbers, mental health remains an often overlooked area of one’s lifestyle. This is what makes Fudd’s statements as a sportsperson that much more important.

Fudd’s experience reminds not only athletes but all of us – opening up about mental health and seeking support can be transformative. As an athlete, she’s been conditioned to keep her physique at the top level. However, what happens when an athlete struggles with physical fitness? In 2019, British-Australian WNBA star, Liz Cambage penned an essay for The Player’s Tribune titled “DNP – Mental Health.” The then-Las Vegas Aces player revealed her mental health struggles which led to her struggling with anxiety for the upcoming years. The Australian native mentions at the tail-end of the essay, “Everyone should have a mental health professional. It’s a doctor! Do you know what I mean? It’s literally a physio for your brain.”

Ultimately, both Fudd and Cambage’s advice is simple: “Give it a try.” Whether you’re an athlete, a parent,  a student, or anyone dealing with mental health challenges, seeking help could lead to a better, healthier future.