Due to racial biases in the medical field and careless conservative media coverage, famed Black athletes have historically faced heavier criticism than white athletes for taking time away from their sports to focus on their mental health, however, the culture around Black mental health is making an unapologetic positive shift.
Disparaging stigmas surrounding mental health compounded with inequitable access to mental health resources have historically showcased the magnitude of this systemic health crisis. For all races or ethnic groups, mental illness is a deadly epidemic, and every person should be working toward prioritizing their mental health above any job or career. During the 2021 Olympic season, Black athletes were seen championing these mental health issues on the world’s largest sports stage.