DeMar DeRozan: Sparking a Mental Health Movement in Sports

In February 2018, NBA star DeMar DeRozan inadvertently became a key figure in the conversation about mental health in professional sports. A single tweet expressing his battle with depression sent ripples through the sports world, leading to a broader discussion about mental health among athletes. DeRozan’s honesty not only resonated with fellow players but also prompted changes in how the NBA and other sports organizations approach mental well-being.

The Tweet That Changed Everything

On the night of February 17, 2018, DeRozan was struggling. Despite being an NBA All-Star and leading the Toronto Raptors to success, the pressures of fame and personal struggles weighed heavily on him. In the early hours, DeRozan tweeted, “This depression get the best of me…” He went to bed, unaware of the storm it would unleash. When he woke up, he was met with an outpouring of concern and support.

DeRozan’s tweet opened up a conversation that had long been absent in professional sports. It made athletes and fans alike realize that even those at the top of their game can struggle with mental health issues. His openness allowed many others to share their own battles and shifted the narrative around mental health in sports.

From Compton to NBA Stardom

DeRozan’s journey to the NBA was far from easy. Growing up in Compton, California, a city with high crime rates, was a daily struggle. Basketball became his escape, and he spent countless hours watching basketball tapes with his father, Frank DeRozan. This love for the game ultimately led him to Toronto, where he quickly became the face of the Raptors after Chris Bosh’s departure in 2010.

DeRozan embraced the responsibility and led the Raptors to multiple playoff appearances, becoming the franchise’s all-time leader in points. However, despite his success on the court, DeRozan’s battle with depression remained hidden until his candid tweet in 2018.

Breaking the Stigma of Mental Health in Sports

DeRozan’s tweet sparked a movement in the sports world. His then-coach, Dwane Casey, was shocked by the revelation but proud of his player’s courage. The tweet challenged the long-held belief that seeking help for mental health was a sign of weakness, especially in sports. DeRozan’s openness encouraged other athletes, including Kevin Love, to share their own struggles, further normalizing the conversation around mental health.

In response to DeRozan’s tweet and the subsequent discussions it prompted, the NBA took significant steps to address mental health. The league launched the Mind Health program to raise awareness about mental illness and added mental health guidelines in 2019, requiring teams to have licensed professionals on staff. DeRozan’s bravery directly influenced these changes, making mental health support more accessible to athletes.

A Journey of Self-Care and Growth

While DeRozan has helped countless others by sharing his story, he continues to work on his own mental health. He emphasizes the importance of self-care, whether through spending time in nature or simply taking a nap. DeRozan acknowledges that managing mental health is an ongoing process, but he is now better equipped to handle challenges than before.

Fans regularly thank DeRozan for his openness, with many saying he has helped them or their loved ones navigate their own mental health struggles. His decision to speak out has made a lasting impact, not just in the NBA but beyond the sports world, as he continues to inspire people to seek help when they need it.