Six-time WNBA All-Star Skylar Diggins-Smith opens up about her mental health journey, admitting to struggling with anxiety and depression. She also discusses the difficulties of adjusting to a new team and the challenges she faced during her time with the Phoenix Mercury.
Six-time WNBA All-Star Skylar Diggins-Smith has become a vocal advocate for mental health awareness in sports. In a candid interview with ESPN's LaChina Robinson, Diggins-Smith revealed her own struggles with anxiety and depression.
"I've struggled with anxiety. I've struggled with depression and other mental health things where I would feel weak asking for help," she said.
Skylar Diggins-Smith Reveals Mental Health Struggles and Challenges in Exclusive ESPN Interview
Diggins-Smith admitted that it was a "struggle" to seek professional help at first, but that doing so has had a transformative impact on her life.
"I think I've always struggled with anxiety. I just think I didn't know what that was until I talked to somebody about how I was feeling, and like, 'Oh, that's anxiety!' I thought that was just Sky ... and it's like you're not the only person feeling this way. But sometimes you hesitate to share it."
Skylar Diggins-Smith Reveals Mental Health Struggles and Challenges in Exclusive ESPN Interview
Diggins-Smith's decision to speak out has been met with praise from her peers and fans alike. She is among a growing number of athletes who have openly discussed their mental health challenges, helping to destigmatize the issue and create a more supportive environment for those struggling.
Diggins-Smith also shared her experiences with the Phoenix Mercury, where she played for four seasons. She described her relationship with the franchise as "acrimonious," and claimed that she was barred from team sites while on maternity leave.
Skylar Diggins-Smith Reveals Mental Health Struggles and Challenges in Exclusive ESPN Interview
"It was a difficult situation. I had a lot of support from my teammates and the fans, but there were also some challenges. I'm not going to go into all the details, but I'm grateful to be where I am now," Diggins-Smith said.
After her tumultuous time in Phoenix, Diggins-Smith signed a two-year deal with the Seattle Storm. She has expressed her excitement about the opportunity to play with a new team and believes that she has found a more supportive environment.
"I want to play with Jewell," Diggins-Smith said in February during her introductory press conference. "She's one of the best players in the world, and I think we can do something special together."
Diggins-Smith is still adjusting to her new role with the Storm, but she believes that she is making progress. She has been praised by her coach for her work ethic and dedication on and off the court.
"I don't know what the future holds, but I'm just focused on taking it one day at a time and being the best version of myself," Diggins-Smith said.
Diggins-Smith's story is a reminder that mental health struggles can affect anyone, regardless of their profession or success. Her willingness to speak out has inspired others to seek help and has helped to raise awareness of the importance of mental well-being in sports.
