Personal Crisis’s And Support Outside The Ring
When you are immersed so deeply in a world of “make believe” sometimes the lines of reality are blurred. Whether it be from true mental health issues, brain injury related issues, or substance abuse, it is sometimes hard to tell what is going on when wrestlers act out.
How many of us who fought our way through the independent scene have brain damage? We hear of high profile cases like Chris Benoit, but we rarely talk about how the same thing can affect others in the industry whether they realize it or not.
Substance abuse is another issue, as this can stem from a number of triggers whether it be to deal with pain from injury, emotional pain, or recreational use. This can ultimately lead to unsafe situations for not only the person using, but those around them.
Mental Health issues are a normal part of society. Unfortunately we discuss it as a stigma, instead of working to find the roots of these issues, and address them, rather than demonizing those who are suffering.
If you see someone who you think needs attention there are many ways to be there for them. You can start out by listening, spending time with them, taking them out of their environment for a while, making them or taking them to dinner.
Here is a guide to Mental Health Alternatives you can embody as a community to help support each other: http://ram-a.net/sites/default/files/FMTBM_final_wcovers.pdf
So lets stop judging peoples actions, and start being more attentive to those who need community support.
