Willie Burton: From NBA Stardom to Advocating for Athlete Wellness
Episode Overview
Willie Burton's journey from college basketball success to NBA challenges The impact of sports on mental health and substance use struggles Support for student athletes and policy advocacy Embracing a new way of living and seeking help Resilience, hope, and commitment to helping others
Recovery means to me a new way of living, a new way of learning, information and tools that I have that I put on my side and I walk every day as I engage in society. Society is not going to change. The only thing to change was me. I needed to change.
Imagine rising to the heights of NBA fame only to find yourself grappling with addiction. That's the story of Willie Burton, a former NBA star who was picked ninth in the 1990 draft. His early years were marked by immense talent and support from teammates and coaches, but the coping mechanisms he developed as a child in Detroit came back to haunt him when he hit the big leagues.
In this compelling episode, Burton opens up about his struggles with substance use and the toll it took on his mental health. He shares how he overcame these challenges and now dedicates his life to helping student and professional athletes navigate similar issues. Burton's journey is one of resilience and hope, highlighting the importance of support systems and policy advocacy in sports. His commitment to rewriting policies for K-12 and collegiate athletes showcases his dedication to creating a positive impact.
Whether you're an athlete, a coach, or someone interested in mental health and recovery, Burton's story offers valuable insights and inspiration.