Edmonton Oilers goaltender Jack Campbell has recently opened up about his struggles with mental health and the support he has received from the NHL and NHLPA’s Player Assistance Program.
In an interview with Global News, Campbell shared that he has been dealing with anxiety and depression since he was a teenager. He explained that the pressure of being a professional athlete and the constant scrutiny from fans and media took a toll on his mental well-being.
Campbell’s struggles came to light when he took a leave of absence from the Oilers in February to focus on his mental health. He received an outpouring of support from his teammates, coaches, and the league as a whole.
The 29-year-old goaltender praised the NHL and NHLPA’s Player Assistance Program for providing him with the resources and support he needed during this difficult time. He also emphasized the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding mental health in professional sports.
“I think it’s important for people to know that it’s okay to not be okay,” Campbell said. “And it’s important to reach out for help when you need it.”
The NHL and NHLPA’s Player Assistance Program was established in 1996 to provide confidential support and resources to players and their families for a wide range of issues, including mental health. The program is available to all players, regardless of their tenure in the league.
According to the NHL, the program has helped over 1,500 players and their families since its inception. It offers a variety of services, including counseling, substance abuse treatment, and financial and legal assistance.
Campbell’s openness about his struggles has sparked a conversation about mental health in the sports world. Many fans and fellow players have shown their support for him and have commended him for speaking out.
In a statement, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said, “We are proud of Jack for sharing his story and we hope it will encourage others to seek help if they need it.”
Campbell’s return to the ice has been met with cheers and support from fans and teammates alike. He hopes that by sharing his story, he can help others who may be going through similar struggles.
“I want to use my platform to show that it’s okay to talk about mental health and to seek help,” Campbell said. “I hope my story can inspire others to do the same.”
