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TW // Trigger warning: This episode contains sensitive topics.

Welcome to a very special 2-part episode on Well, Not Perfect. This episode is close to my heart because it hits home for me. You guys may or may not know that I was a D1 volleyball player who experienced a sudden career-ending injury that caused me to spiral into anxiety and depression. In those years, I discovered the value of mental health and the importance of mental health in athletes. I have since dedicated my career to helping athletes never suffer in silence again and I did this over a decade ago because in mental health there was no support like there is today.

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So In honor of World Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month, I am highlighting the very special nonprofit organization, Morgan\'s Message. Morgan\\u2019s Message is an organization striving to break the stigma surrounding mental health in the athletic community. Morgan was a division 1 lacrosse player at Duke, and she silently battled depression after a career ending injury, Morgan died by suicide in 2019 at the age of 22.\\xa0 After this tragic loss, her family and friends created a program that now helps hundreds of college athletes across the country.\\xa0

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I feel so deeply connected to this organization because, like them, I discovered the importance and my life\'s mission after the game was over. For me and the athletes who are involved with Morgan\'s Message, we pour energy into the athletic community so that no one has to suffer alone.\\xa0

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Join me in Part 1 and welcome Morgan\\u2019s teammates and friends, Clare and Kat. Their words inspire all of us to care for one another and never be afraid to ask if someone needs help.\\xa0

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In today\\u2019s episode, you\\u2019ll learn:\\xa0

1. How to balance the needs of friends with your needs as well\\xa0\\xa0
2. How to set gentle and loving boundaries\\xa0
3. What to do when a friend needs your help\\xa0

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Morgan\\u2019s Message strives to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health within the student-athlete community and equalize the treatment of physical and mental health in athletics. They aim to expand the dialogue on mental health by normalizing conversations, empowering those who suffer in silence, and supporting those who feel alone. Here\\u2019s where you can find Dona, Aberle, Clare, Kat & Morgan\\u2019s Message:

Instagram: @morgansmessage\\xa0

@aberodgers

@clare_kehoe

@katzempolich

@dkrodgers5

Twitter: @morgansmessage

LinkedIn: @MorgansMessage

Website: morgansmessage.org

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To become an ambassador for Morgan\\u2019s Message, visit morgansmessage.org/education-program\\xa0

Podcast: The Mental Matchup

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Suicide Prevention & Awareness Month Resources:

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call 800-273-8255
• Crisis Text Line: Text TALK to 741-741 to text with a trained crisis counselor for free, 24/7
• Trevor Lifeline: Call 866-488-7386
• SAMHSA National Helpline: Call 800-662-4357 for treatment referral and information
• NAMI Support & Education: Visit nami.org/Support-Education