The Jacksonville Jaguars, an NFL team, have teamed up with the be nice. program, a Grand Rapids initiative focused on mental health. This partnership comes as conversations surrounding mental health in sports grow stronger, especially in light of recent events affecting athletes.
The be nice. program started in 2011 and aims to prevent suicide and promote mental well-being. Christy Buck, the founder of the Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan, emphasized how this initiative first impacted local communities and is now making waves nationwide. She expressed gratitude to the Jaguars for recognizing the importance of mental health support.
Michael Benko, a member of the Jaguars organization, helped connect the team with the program earlier this year. This collaboration took on extra meaning after the tragic death of Dallas Cowboys rookie Marshawn Kneeland. His passing fueled discussions about the immense pressures athletes face.
The Jaguars’ involvement in be nice. reflects a larger trend in sports. Organizations are realizing the importance of open conversations and early support for mental health. Jaguars leadership saw the need for additional tools for their staff and found that be nice. matched their goals perfectly.
Recently, the Jaguars team completed training in the be nice. action plan, focusing on building a supportive workplace culture. Megha Parekh, a high-ranking leader in the Jaguars organization, noted that creating a space where employees feel valued is crucial for effective teamwork and overall success.
This approach follows a broader movement in professional sports where mental health is becoming increasingly prioritized. A recent survey from the APA found that 71% of athletes believe mental health is equally important as physical health. These developing strategies signal a trend toward making mental well-being a priority both on and off the field, which could ultimately lead to better performance and overall quality of life for athletes.
For more insights on the mental health initiatives in professional sports, visit the Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan.
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