"With the development of social media and technology, there's more ways to attack someone, to make them feel down -- and I think there's still a stigma around talking about mental health. I know there's been times where I've felt vulnerable, doubted myself and needed someone to talk to -- and, instead, I've tried to keep up this macho athlete image of, 'I don't need anyone'. The truth is that I do, everyone does. And you'll feel a lot better from talking about your feelings and emotions."
"As athletes, it seems like we have the world at our feet or hands -- we can do whatever we want, earn so much money and never be affected by it. But the reality is, if we can show vulnerability, then it opens up a bigger conversation for people who are struggling in the darkness. It's the duty of people like me -- and the positions we're in -- to be role models."
Jude Bellingham said he used to search his name on social media as a young Birmingham player and has learned to brush off outside criticism. He noted that social media and technology create more ways to attack people and contribute to a stigma around talking about mental health. He admitted to feeling vulnerable, doubting himself and trying to maintain a macho athlete image instead of seeking help. He said everyone needs someone to talk to and that talking improves feelings and emotions. He argued that athletes face unrealistic expectations and that showing vulnerability can open conversations for those struggling. He said athletes have a duty to be role models and called for limits on hateful comments.
Read at ESPN.com
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