Editor’s note: This opinion piece includes discussion of suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out 988 (National Suicide Helpline), 741741 (Crisis Text Line), or 866-488-7386 (Trevor Project).
Sports has always been something that I have watched since I was young because my father introduced me to them, and I was drawn to them. I really liked them. But the reason why I fell in love with them is that sports quite literally saved my life.
My freshman year of high school was not easy for me. It never is on anyone, but I struggled. The new environment, new people and a tougher-than-expected workload took its toll on me.
My grades slipped, I was isolated, and I felt so defeated and alone. It got to the point where I considered taking my own life. Those thoughts kept weighing on me, despite my efforts to fight them. But I made it through.
One thing that got me through this was sports, specifically when the Astros made a run to, and ultimately won, the 2017 World Series. It is a significant title for a number of reasons, not just because of what they did to uplift a city devastated by Hurricane Harvey, but because they gave me hope.
In this regard, I truly understood the beauty of sports and what it can do to uplift. Every win, every postseason round, they gave me a reason to cheer. Something to look forward to.
Mental health and athletics is something that has only recently gained traction. Many athletes have been more open about their struggles with mental health, and I applaud them for destigmatizing it.
Why do I choose to tell this story? Because September is Suicide Awareness Month.
I want anyone who reads this to know that you are not alone. If you are struggling, please reach out to someone for support, whether it’s a friend, family member or a helpline. Someone cares.
For help, reach out to 988 (National Suicide Helpline), 741741 (Crisis Text Line), or 866-488-7386 (Trevor Project).
