Former NFL quarterback Johnny Manziel shares his candid experiences with mental health and addiction, highlighting the importance of seeking help and prioritizing well-being.
Johnny Manziel, once a celebrated college football star and first-round NFL draft pick, has walked a tumultuous journey marked by brilliance and struggles. At the annual VitAL health conference, Manziel candidly recounted the pivotal moment when his career took a nosedive, leaving him consumed by crippling depression.
Despite his success on the field, achieving a Heisman Trophy and shattering records at Texas A&M, Manziel's spirits plummeted after being drafted by the Cleveland Browns. "I had everything I could ever want... but I think that was truly the most empty I had ever felt inside," he confided. This emptiness led him down a path of self-destructive behaviors and substance abuse.
Johnny Manziel Opens Up About Mental Health Struggles at Health Conference
Manziel's struggles with alcohol and depression amplified when his football career faltered. He entered rehab in 2015, facing the harsh reality that his priorities had shifted away from the sport he once adored. "I turned to something else that I was really good at," he admitted, referring to his excessive partying habits.
The Browns, despite their initial high hopes for Manziel, realized too late the extent of his personal problems. Former coach Mike Pettine acknowledged that the Browns underestimated the depth of Manziel's issues, ultimately leading to his departure from the team.
Johnny Manziel Opens Up About Mental Health Struggles at Health Conference
Manziel's addiction spiraled, with excessive cocaine use leading to a 40-pound weight loss. However, in 2018, he announced his commitment to sobriety during an interview on "Good Morning America."
At the VitAL health conference, Manziel emphasized the importance of seeking help for mental health issues. "Alcohol and drugs were detrimental to where I was trying to go in my life," he declared. "I'm looking to live a healthier, more pure lifestyle."
Johnny Manziel Opens Up About Mental Health Struggles at Health Conference
Manziel's journey is a testament to the complexities of mental health and addiction. He urges others to prioritize their well-being and seek support when needed. His story serves as a reminder that even those in the spotlight can face inner turmoil and that seeking help is a sign of strength and hope.
Today, Manziel has found a new path as a college football analyst for The Action Network's "Big Bets on Campus" podcast. His experiences have given him a unique perspective on the challenges and resilience of student-athletes.
Manziel's recovery and transformation are an inspiration to those struggling with similar issues. His candidness about his struggles and the importance of mental health awareness has touched countless lives and encouraged others to seek help.
Manziel's journey from darkness to redemption is a testament to the power of perseverance and the transformative potential of human connection. His story serves as a beacon of hope for countless individuals facing their own health and addiction challenges.
