NFL Star Turned Doctor on Stigma and Mental Health

Why do so many former NFL players seem to have mental health concerns when they retire? Could we be doing more to address their emotional needs during their playing days, and if we did, do they have the tools to take action? Former NFL player Derek Price became a doctor after retiring from play and now heads up Sierra Tucson, one of the nation’s largest mental health treatment centers in the country. He shares how these answers are not as straightforward as we think and discusses the struggles of returning military and retiring law enforcement and what he sees as a doctor. Join us as today’s guest tells us about his story of leaving the NFL, the reasons behind the stigma surrounding mental illness, and his new program for first responders. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the episode page. Our guest, Derek Price, is the Chief Executive Officer of Sierra Tucson, the award-winning Arizona-based mental health center renowned for its decades of success in treating trauma, anxiety, addiction, and chronic pain. Before joining Sierra Tucson, Derek served as CEO for American Addiction Centers, leading the 150-bed Desert Hope Treatment Center in Las Vegas. Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can’t imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com.