William W.

William is a 22-year-old college athlete, at Belmont Abbey College. Originally from Greensboro, North Carolina, William is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Management with plans to graduate this May. Mental health struggles, particularly among athletes, are a significant concern to William as he has experienced his own set of challenges. Societal expectations often pressure men to suppress their emotions, leading to unhealthy coping mechanisms. Open communication, a supportive environment, and positive daily habits are crucial for managing mental health challenges.

William describes his upbringing as relatively good, despite growing up in a modest household. He attributes much of his success to the hardworking nature instilled in him by his family. His parents, especially his father, worked tirelessly to provide for their family. William’s father, in particular, left a lasting impact on him, modeling persistence and dedication. "My dad worked long hours, sometimes leaving as early as six in the morning and coming back late at night around 10pm. As a kid, I didn't fully appreciate it, but now I realize how much effort he put into supporting us," William reflects. This work ethic has influenced him deeply, and he credits it as a driving force in his life.

William has three siblings: two younger sisters, one who is a freshman in high school, one of whom attends North Carolina State University, and a brother with two children. He mentions that his childhood friendships were dynamic, with some lasting, while others faded over time. The importance of relationships, both family and friends, has remained a constant in his life.

William’s journey to becoming a college athlete was shaped by a combination of passion and practical decisions. He played soccer at the club level for much of his life, which naturally led him to pursue the sport at a collegiate level. His choice to attend Belmont Abbey College was partly influenced by financial considerations, as it was a more affordable option compared to other schools that were trying to recruit him. He acknowledges the dedication required to succeed as a college athlete, highlighting the discipline and investment that goes into balancing academics and sports. "It's not just about playing for yourself; it’s about being part of a team," William shares. The commitment to both personal and team goals is something that he deeply values in his athletic career.

Looking ahead, William is focused on continuing his soccer career. He is excited about traveling to Sweden in the summer to play soccer and hopes to either play professionally or return for another year of college soccer, depending on eligibility rules. "Soccer is something I’ve invested more time in than anything else, so not continuing it feels like a missed opportunity," he admits. His passion for the sport is evident, and his long-term goal is to continue playing professionally and travel while he's still young.

William attributes much of his drive and success to the strong work ethic modeled by his family. His grandfather and father, in particular, instilled in him the value of hard work and commitment. "They taught me that if you put in the effort, you’ll eventually earn the respect and rewards you deserve," William notes. This lesson has shaped his approach to both life and sports. His motivation is also rooted in the idea of being an investment for others, particularly his family. He wants to honor their sacrifices and make them proud, the support they’ve given him should shine through his achievements.

Much of William’s life has been centered around mental health. He shared his personal struggles with mental health, particularly the challenges athletes face in balancing physical performance with mental well-being. "Mental health is crucial, especially for athletes, where performance and confidence play such a large role," he says. He acknowledges that maintaining mental health can be difficult, especially in a competitive environment, and admits that he has struggled with his own mental health at times.

Growing up in a family where mental health was not openly discussed, William noted that societal expectations often placed pressure on men to push aside their emotions. "As a man, you're expected to be strong, and mental health struggles were not seen as a priority," he reflects. This societal stigma, he believes, led him to push his feelings aside for years. However, as he matured, he began to realize the importance of addressing mental health issues and seeking help. William also touched on the differences in how mental health is perceived between men and women, noting that women’s struggles were often taken more seriously. He believes that the stigmatization has improved in recent years, but still sees a need for greater transparency and support for men when it comes to mental health.

A core theme of the interview was the importance of talking about mental health and seeking support. William emphasized that having someone to listen to you is often more important than finding someone to give advice. "Sometimes you just need someone who will listen, not someone who will tell you what to do," he explains. He stresses that the act of sharing thoughts and emotions with others can be incredibly healing, particularly for those struggling with mental health issues. William also reflected on how having a reliable support system has helped him manage his own mental health challenges. "I learned that you have to surround yourself with the right people—people who are supportive and understanding," he shares. He believes that connecting with others who understand or are willing to listen can make a significant difference in mental health recovery.

When asked what advice he would give to someone currently struggling with mental health issues, William stressed the importance of taking small steps. "Start with the little things like making your bed, eating a healthy meal, going outside for some sunlight," he suggests. He acknowledges that the hardest part of mental health recovery is often taking that first step, but insists that even small actions can lead to significant progress. Additionally, he encourages people to reach out for help, whether it's talking to a family member, coach, or even a stranger. "If you don't feel comfortable talking to friends, find someone else; a family member, a teacher, anyone who will listen," he advises.

William Whitman’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, hard work, and the importance of mental health awareness. His journey as an athlete has taught him the value of patience, but his personal growth in understanding and addressing mental health struggles is equally inspiring. Through his openness, William encourages others to seek help, communicate their feelings, and take small steps toward better mental well-being. His story serves as a powerful reminder that mental health is just as important as physical health, and that talking honestly about different struggles can be the first step toward healing.