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Black Athletes Breaking Barriers and Embracing Mental Health: LeBron James

As we celebrate Black History Month, we want to highlight LeBron James for his openness about his mental health journey.

As we celebrate Black History Month, we want to highlight incredible Black athletes who’ve made their mark with their skills and their honesty about their lives and mental health journeys.

These athletes, from different sports, are open about who they truly are, showing their strengths and challenges. Their stories teach us important lessons.

They remind us that life can be tough for anyone, no matter who you are. It’s okay not to have everything go smoothly all the time.

They stress the importance of seeking help when it comes to mental health, showing that it’s a sign of strength, not weakness.

They also show us how speaking up and standing for what you believe in can make a positive impact on the world.

Why we’re celebrating LeBron James

LeBron James is an icon of basketball excellence and a champion for community upliftment and education.

His philanthropic efforts, particularly those targeting his hometown of Akron, demonstrate his commitment to empowering the next generation.

LeBron continuously highlights the importance of role models and the value of giving back, especially within the Black community. He speaks candidly about the complexities of being Black in America, confronting racism head-on.

LeBron’s response to the racist graffiti incident at his Los Angeles home was profound and personal, reflecting on the historical context of racism in America.

We’ve got a long way to go, for us as a society and for us as African Americans, until we feel equal in America.

LeBron James

His Mental Health Journey

LeBron advocates for mental wellness, particularly in sports. He acknowledges the pressures of his high-stakes career and the importance of mental fitness.

LeBron has used his platform to advocate for reducing stigma, speaking to other young black children about mental health.

It’s okay sometimes to hold some stuff in, but if you hold it in too long then it can become overwhelming.

LeBron James


We hope these stories inspire you, just like these athletes inspire us. Remember, you’re not alone in your journey. With determination and resilience, you can overcome anything.

‘Head in the Game’ is here to help support young peoples mental health. To learn more about the ‘Head in the Game’ program click here. Young people can also explore resources to support their mental wellbeing by clicking here.