TJ Smith's Journey: From Hockey Star to Mental Health Advocate
I'm a big hockey guy and I follow a lot of it, and I remember reading about what Robin Leonard, you know, top tier Nhl goalie, and he talked, he came out, started speaking about his demons few years ago, and you know how he started drinking all the time and that's what he relied on to get through it.
In this episode of 'Courtside Wellness', host Brandon St.Croix sits down with TJ Smith, a former Major Junior Hockey player turned mental health advocate. TJ opens up about his own struggles with mental health during his athletic career and how those experiences shaped his current advocacy work. The conversation covers the often-taboo topic of mental health in sports, especially within the hockey community.
TJ shares candid stories about the stigma athletes face, the pressures of performance, and the importance of building a support network. One poignant moment is when TJ recounts how NHL goalie Robin Leonard's openness about his mental health struggles inspired him to start sharing his own story. TJ also discusses his efforts to create peer support groups, providing a safe space for athletes to seek help.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of sports and mental health, offering both inspiration and practical advice.