Updates

The NFL and NFL Players Association are teaming up with Cigna to host “Beyond The Physical: A Symposium on Mental Health in Sports” on May 14.​

The forum is part of an ongoing effort to promote player health and wellness. On the agenda is a series of panels including NFL players and Legends, mental health organizations, caregivers, medical providers and media personalities. The forum aims to raise awareness around mental health and promote a culture where everyone is encouraged to seek the support they need.

Confirmed panelists include NFL wide receiver and co-founder of Project 375 Brandon Marshall, former NFL cornerback Asher Allen, former Pro Bowl running back Warrick Dunn and Atlanta Falcons senior director of player affairs Kevin Winston. Representatives from Active Minds, Mental Health America (MHA) of Georgia, the American Psychological Association and Campaign to Change Direction, among others, will also join. Shanti Das, founder of the “Silence The Shame” initiative for mental health awareness, will serve as the event emcee.

The panelists will explore various aspects of mental health with topics ranging from managing the pressures of being a professional athlete, to the mental health side of performance, to available programs and more.

“This effort is especially important in light of the messages young athletes receive about toughness and the need to be strong all the time,” said NFL Vice President of Wellness and Clinical Services, Dwight Hollier. “We will shine a light on mental health in sports and discuss ways to support athletes and others on the journey toward total wellness.”

For more information, or to attend, please visit the forum’s registration page.