I was recently interviewed by the American news network, Newsy, about the tennis star, Naomi Osaka’s abrupt withdrawal from the French Open due to ongoing mental-health difficulties. Osaka’s admission of her mental-health challenges is another compelling voice added to an increasing number of professional athletes who are speaking out about the impact of mental illness on their lives and careers.

In the interview, I suggest that when fans of these athletes hear of these challenges among their idols, mental illness becomes more normalized and acceptable to talk about for everyone. The end result, hopefully, is that more people will become more comfortable with admitting to their own mental-health difficulties and, even more important, will be more likely to seek out professional help.

For my more comprehensive take on mental health in sports, you read more here.