(TNND) — A new four-episode YouTube series is on a mission to show young people that it’s okay to talk about mental health.
jed foundation (JED), an organization focused on teen and young adult mental health, and an athlete storytelling brand. without interruption teaming up for a video series “Invisible Game”.
of first episodeThe show, featuring former NBA player Jason Richardson and his son Jace, a Michigan State basketball player, dropped on October 10th.
of next episode Rapper Percy “Master P” Miller and his son Marcy, a basketball player at the University of Houston, were featured.
of Episode 3The film, released Thursday, features Atlanta Hawks star Trae Young and former college football player and strength trainer Travel Gaines.
The final episode will air on October 31st and will feature former NBA player Iman Shumpert and gymnast Frederic Richard, a medalist at this summer’s Paris Olympics.
richard He said there is a growing respect for people to be honest about their struggles.
“Overcoming it is what makes you strong and impressive,” Richard said.
He said he approaches his mental health proactively, looking for ways to not only get better at his sport, but also a better person.
Richard said he hopes his openness will encourage others to look after their own mental health.
“We all know that no one’s life is perfect,” he said. “We know that strength does not mean absorbing it.”
Dr. Laura Erickson Schloss, JED’s chief medical officer, said the unscripted YouTube series will “feature intergenerational conversations between top athletes about mental health, life, and staying in competitive shape.” “There is,” he said.
Episodes explore participants’ personal stories and mental health challenges.
“And it really gives viewers an opportunity to understand that even people who are at that level and at the top of their game have struggles and need to ask for help,” she said. said.
According to Erickson-Schloss, suicide is the second leading cause of death for youth ages 12 to 24 in the United States.
Suicide rates among Black youth are increasing faster than any other race or ethnicity. Nearly half of Black high school students report experiencing racism at school, and teens who face racism are more likely to have mental health issues and suicidal thoughts, she said. said.
“Young black men face real systemic barriers that make them less likely to seek help when they need it,” Erickson-Schloss said. “So this is designed to reach young black men. But we know that other groups are also interested in watching and can get something out of watching it.”
Erickson-Schloss said she wants to “normalize the conversation around mental health” and show young people that there are people who care and can help, including parents, friends, teammates, coaches and mental health professionals. said.
Anyone needing support is encouraged to call or text 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (988).
