Turning to mental health professionals. 

We all had the speech at some time or another. “Know the difference between Pain and Injury” – one is a part of the game, and the other is a reason to step out of it. It’s a distinction that many of us were forced to make during our competitive lives. Am I hurt, or am I injured? Is this something that I should work through, or that I should step out and treat? \

While pushing through is a part of what makes us all successful in competition, it is a distinction that is far more difficult in life after sports. This is even more so when considering something as crucial and challenging as mental health. Our instincts often tell us to ‘tough it out’ or ‘push through’ a challenging situation, but when is that bad advice? The line is a difficult one to draw, and yet less so than we would think. It begins with mental health. 

‘Gutting something out’ is fine when it comes to minor injuries, but when struggling with significant concerns such as depression or other mental health conditions, it’s time to talk to the professionals. The path you take, the manner in which you seek out support, and the remedies that result are all up to you as an individual. There are many paths to wellness. The key is to take one. 

While this community is intended to be a place where we can discuss experiences, share resources, and find advice, it is not in any way intended to be a therapeutic solution.. Some of us have backgrounds in specialized areas, and yet none of us present to be an answer to such serious mental health concerns. We can support one another and offer resources, but we are not therapists. We are friends who have similar experience, and we want each of our members to seek out the support they need, when they need it, to be well. 

Questions for discussion: 

• What signs should a person look for that would tell them that they should seek out professional help on an emotional or psychological issue? 
• Where are the best places to look to find that support?