The National Football League Players Association (NFLPA) has taken significant steps to prioritize mental health and well-being for its players, with the formation of a Comprehensive Mental Health and Wellness Committee in 2019. Amber Cargill, Psy.D., the Director of Player Wellness at the NFLPA, highlighted the union’s commitment to supporting players’ mental health needs, driven by the requests of the players themselves. The NFLPA has established a Behavioral Health Program that requires teams to retain a Behavioral Health Team Clinician to assist players. Additionally, the NFLPA has created a directory of vetted clinicians in team cities to provide quick access to mental health treatment for players.
With Mental Health Awareness Month currently underway, the NFLPA is focusing on highlighting players and how they address their mental health. Dr. Cargill serves as a bridge between players and mental health services, facilitating connections with clinicians and psychiatrists for ongoing treatment. She emphasized that professional athletes face similar mental health challenges as the general public, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, and stress. Dr. Cargill expressed her pride in ensuring that players have a positive experience when accessing mental health resources through the NFLPA.
The NFLPA offers a range of programs, including the Players Association Injured Reserve Program (PAIR), which guides players through their recovery journeys. Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, the NFLPA adapted its services to ensure minimal disruption, transitioning the PAIR program to a virtual format. Dr. Cargill is also involved in the NFL Substances of Abuse Program, serving as a liaison between players who test positive and the program to ensure they receive necessary support. Success stories within the mental health initiative at the NFLPA highlight the impact of programs in helping players navigate mental health challenges and become ambassadors for wellness within the league.
Dr. Cargill emphasized the importance of education and destigmatization in promoting mental health awareness and help-seeking among players. She noted that incoming players are increasingly aware of mental health resources available to them but may need guidance on how to address personal struggles. The NFLPA is focused on providing additional education and resources to support players in their mental health journeys. Dr. Cargill’s leadership has enabled the NFLPA to establish a wide range of mental health resources and programs for athletes, ensuring they have access to the support they need to prioritize their mental well-being.
As the awareness and understanding of mental health continue to grow within the sports world, the NFLPA is setting a strong example of prioritizing player mental health. By empowering players to seek help and providing a comprehensive network of clinicians and programs, the NFLPA is leading the way in supporting athletes’ mental well-being. With the open dialogue around mental health led by athletes like Michael Phelps and Simone Biles, leagues and player associations across the country are recognizing the importance of addressing mental health challenges in the sports community. The initiatives and resources offered by the NFLPA serve as a model for other organizations looking to prioritize the mental health of their athletes.
