Q: Dear Dr. Greg, 

I just read about Naomi Osaka withdrawing from the French Open because of depression. As a former professional golfer, I knew several players with depression. Do a lot of pro athletes have mental illness?

Kim | Retired LPGA

A: Dear Kim,

Thank you for asking about depression and mental health. Naomi’s decision to withdraw from the French Open shocked the sports world. It is a potent (and very public) reminder that depression is more common and devastating than many believe. I hope Naomi can find the help she needs.

Depression and mental illness spare no one - including athletes. Michael Phelps opened up about his struggles with depression and anxiety before the 2016 Rio Olympics. Swimmer Amanda Beard battled drinking, depression, drug abuse, and bulimia. Check out her book, In the Water They Can't See You Cry. Former UCLA basketball star Kevin Love shared his struggles with anxiety and depression. He suffered a panic attack in 2017 while playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers.

“There are times where I feel absolutely worthless, where I completely shut down but have this bubbling anger that is through the roof.”

- Michael Phelps

Around one in five athletes is depressed. My guess that depression is even more common after athletes retire. The loss of purpose and camaraderie takes a toll. If an athlete leaves their sport involuntarily due to injury or performance, depression and anxiety are even more likely. Concussions, chronic pain, drinking, and sleep apnea all increase the risk of depression.

Thankfully, there is new hope. Specialized doctors can help you modify your diet, lifestyle, exercise, and sleep to help shield you from depression. Many athletic organizations, including the NFLPA, LPGA, and the NBPA are taking an active role in boosting the mental wellness of their players.  

Let us work together to defeat the stigma around mental illness.

Dr. Greg