From PhillyVoice · · 30s
Lane Johnson's mental health advocacy
Retired Eagle Lane Johnson's mental health advocacy reshapes masculinity norms.
In brief
Retired Eagle Lane Johnson's mental health advocacy reshapes masculinity norms. Retired Eagle Lane Johnson's mental health advocacy helps men acknowledge emotional distress and seek help. Originally reported by PhillyVoice.
Lane Johnson
Retired Eagle Lane Johnson opened up about his depression battle to make mental health discussions more acceptable for men.
“The star lineman made it more acceptable for men to acknowledge emotional distress and ask for help by opening up about his own depression battle.”
Mental health advocacy
Johnson's public discussions with depression helped break down mental health stigmas in male communities.
“Each had publicly discussed their experiences with depression. I described them as role models because they challenged long-standing cultural expectations and traditional ideas about masculinity that, not very long ago, made such admissions nearly unthinkable.”
Lasting impact
Johnson's mental health advocacy may be his most lasting impact beyond football achievements.
“Over time, however, his impact away from football may prove to be even more consequential than his achievements on the field.”
What it means
Retired Eagle Lane Johnson's mental health advocacy helps men acknowledge emotional distress and seek help.
