In the world of professional sports, focus tends to center on athletes’ physical prowess and ability to achieve results on the field, court, or pitch. It is only in recent years that the spectating public has also begun to pay attention to the psychological challenges that accompany this immense pressure to perform. Studies indicate that about 33% of college athletes and up to 35% of elite athletes struggle with their mental health, suffering from symptoms of anxiety, depression, burnout, and more. However, despite the prevalence of these issues, it is uncommon for athletes to reach out for support– only approximately 10% of college athletes seek help from mental health professionals.
Football, in particular, presents a unique set of demands for its athletes. The contact sport not only requires athletes to put their bodies on the line, but also their minds. Intense scrutiny from media outlets and fans has contributed to a culture where players’ mental wellbeing can often be overlooked. A 2019 study found that nearly one in four NFL athletes report symptoms of anxiety (26%) or depression (24%), with approximately 18% of players reporting symptoms of both. Despite increasing public awareness for the pervasiveness of these conditions, stigma remains a significant barrier to those seeking help. Many players fear that, by speaking openly about their mental health struggles, they will jeopardize their careers by showing signs of weakness. Fortunately, more and more NFL athletes have now been breaking their silence, using their platforms to advocate for mental health awareness. One such player is AJ Brown, wide receiver for the Philadelphia Eagles.
Brown’s success on the field has been undeniable: Super Bowl champion, three-time Pro Bowl selection (2020, 2023, 2024), two-time Associated Press All-Pro (2022, 2023), most receptions ever by a wide receiver in Eagles history (2023), and he broke a 38-year single-season team record in receiving yards (2022). However, his success has not come without hardship. In 2021, Brown shared to social media a video discussing his experience with depression, revealing to fans that he had considered taking his own life in 2020.
Since going public with his own mental health struggles, Brown has been an advocate for men’s mental health, bringing light to the fact that many men find it difficult to openly express their feelings, as they fear being perceived as weak by those around them. At a 2021 press conference, Brown said, “Us as men, our feelings aren’t too much cared about… Get things off your chest. It’s OK to talk to someone. Seek help. You have to take care of your brain just like you take care of your body.”
In addition to championing mental healthcare, Brown has created the AJ Brown Foundation, dedicated to cultivating “a generation of resilient and confident young individuals.” Education, mentorship, wellness, and community engagement are pillars of the foundation, highlighting Brown’s desire to foster holistic wellness in the children impacted by his work.
AJ Brown’s courage in sharing his mental health journey with the world has shown a side of him that not many athletes are willing to share. As an athlete at the very top of his sport, his openness has let his fans know that they are not alone in their struggles and that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
If you are or someone you know is struggling with mental health concerns, contact us to connect with one of our therapists who can help you on your wellness journey.