Kevin Raine on Mental Health: From the Ice to Inner Peace
I think we can sit here and weigh pros and cons all night, but I guess looking at the benefit of growing up in a small town where the neighborhood kid's on bikes, we're all playing the same sports, we're all playing the same things, right?
Imagine being at the top of your game in professional hockey, only to find yourself grappling with anxiety and depression. That's the story of Kevin Raine, a former captain of the Sudbury Wolves and a current pro hockey player. In this episode of 'Hockey 2 Hell and Back', Brady Leavold, who has his own history with addiction and homelessness, sits down with Raine for an honest conversation about mental health in the world of hockey.
Raine opens up about his long battle with depression and anxiety, which began as far back as his junior hockey days. He shares how he reached a turning point where he decided to seek professional help to understand and manage his feelings. His journey from suffering in silence to finding solutions is both touching and inspiring. Brady and Kevin dive into the crucial role of community in overcoming mental health challenges.
They discuss how the stigma surrounding mental health in hockey can often make it difficult for players to seek the help they need. Raine's message is clear: it's okay to ask for help, and doing so can lead to profound personal growth. This episode isn't just for hockey fans; it's for anyone who has faced mental health issues or knows someone who has.
With a blend of personal anecdotes and broader insights, Brady and Kevin's conversation offers a powerful reminder that nobody has to face their struggles alone. Tune in for a heartfelt discussion that sheds light on the often-hidden battles faced by athletes.