Goalie Guild: Justin Goldman's Mission to Support Mental Health in Hockey
We see it in all the great goalies you talk about Hendrick Lundquist. But when you're younger and you're not an elite goalie or you're not a professional like, it's really important for those goalies to understand that it's okay to struggle with the thoughts. Um, you know I've really dedicated my career to to advocating for mental health and goaltending.
Imagine being the last line of defense on the ice, with the weight of the game resting on your shoulders. For goalies, this pressure can be immense, and mental health often takes a backseat. In this episode of 'Behind the Mind', host Kevin Meiselman chats with Justin Goldman, founder of The Goalie Guild, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting the mental health of goalies worldwide.
Justin isn't just a mental health advocate; he's also the Emergency Backup Goalie (EBUG) for the Colorado Avalanche and an author of five books. Kevin and Justin's conversation is a blend of personal anecdotes and professional insights. They kick things off with Justin sharing how his love for hockey and his passion for mental health led him to create The Goalie Guild.
This organization aims to fill a gap in the hockey community by providing mental health resources specifically for goalies. One of its key initiatives, Lift The Mask, focuses on raising awareness about the mental health struggles faced by goalies. Throughout their discussion, Justin opens up about his own battles with mental health, including racing thoughts and the constant pressure to perform. He emphasizes that every goalie, no matter their skill level, faces mental challenges.
The conversation also highlights the importance of vulnerability and seeking professional help, touching on powerful stories from NHL goalies who have bravely shared their own struggles. Justin's journey is not just about advocacy; it's about changing the narrative around mental health in sports. He shares how learning from a Shaolin Temple descendent inspired his latest book, 'The Hero in You'.
The episode wraps up with Justin offering heartfelt advice to those grappling with their mental health: don't bottle up your emotions and remember that it's okay to feel vulnerable. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of mental health and sports. It's a compelling reminder that behind every mask is a person with their own battles, and that support and understanding can make all the difference.