Brandon Ingram Opens Up On Mental Health
NEW ORLEANS- Brandon Ingram has been through a lot since being selected second overall in the 20 16 NBA Draft. The battles on the court are just the beginning of the story. Finding someone to bounce things off of is difficult, but Ingram finally found the space to let things out. He recently shared some of what he learned when opening up about mental health.
Just finding the courage to try and call up a therapist is a step in the right direction. Ingram shared, "I never really felt like I had someone I could talk to that would really really understand me and really put themselves in my shoes."
Apr 1, 2023; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Brandon Ingram (14) reacts to making a basket against LA Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) with a fan during the second half at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports
Thankfully, the New Orleans Pelicans have made some investments in mental health these past few years and the players have really taken notice.
Ingram explained, "To have, her name is Jenna (Rosen) up in the Pelicans facility, was really vital for me. I was, I still am, but I was like carrying a lot of stuff with me. Just, just stuff that I couldn't let go. You see me at the games, you know it's hard when I'm losing. It's hard to let it go just right at the moment."
"Nowadays I've had patience. I've developed a lot of patience and thinking about the positive things in my life. Like when things go bad I used to get really really low. Always thinking about the negative things. I'd never think about the positive things so now when things go bad I try to think about the positive things in my life. Positive things going on right now. It helps a lot," the soon to be 26 year old added.
The video had a popup graphic highlighting tips for a successful therapy journey. Those seeking more information are advised to choose a therapist carefully but "don't be afraid to be too vulnerable." Doing work outside of sessions and setting small measures for success are also helpful.
Fans within the United States in need of help or assistance from a mental health professional can text or call 988 from any device or call 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).
