Clyde Edwards-Helaire, the running back for the Kansas City Chiefs, recently revealed that he has been battling post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In a social media post, he acknowledged that living with PTSD is a challenging and overwhelming experience. He expressed gratitude for the support he has received from the Chiefs organization, mentioning that their staff has helped him through tough times.
During a conversation with the media, Edwards-Helaire further elaborated on his struggles, explaining that a significant portion of his reactions stems from a robbery incident in November 2018 that he and his LSU teammate, Jared Hall, thwarted. He also attributed some of his struggles to his upbringing in Louisiana, where he witnessed gun violence and the untimely deaths of close friends. Edwards-Helaire expressed concerns about the people around him potentially facing similar dangers.
Despite his struggles, Edwards-Helaire has had a successful football career. He played a pivotal role in LSU’s perfect 15-0 season in 2019, accumulating impressive statistics. However, the presence of PTSD has affected him both mentally and physically. There have been instances where he has been admitted to the hospital due to severe symptoms, such as uncontrollable vomiting. He highlighted the support he receives from his teammates, who can recognize when he is not behaving as usual.
Although Edwards-Helaire had a strong rookie season, his role on the team has diminished in recent years due to the emergence of Isiah Pacheco. His statistics have declined, with no season exceeding 517 rushing yards. As he prepares for the upcoming season, Edwards-Helaire hopes that by speaking openly about his experiences, he can help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues. He emphasized that seeking help is necessary for everyone, regardless of age, situation, or background.
Opening up about his battle with PTSD is not always easy for Edwards-Helaire. He initially tried to block out his struggles, hoping that they would eventually fade away. However, he soon realized that healing requires seeking support and having the courage to talk about it. While discussing PTSD may not always be comfortable, he recognizes the importance of raising awareness and supporting others who may be going through similar experiences.
. Learn about the significant events that contributed to his struggles and how he has found support from the Chiefs organization and his teammates. Despite his success on the football field, Edwards-Helaire's mental and physical health have been affected by PTSD. Find out how he hopes to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage others to seek help.){kind=link}