Although they say pressure is a privilege, it can also take a deep toll, even on our favorite athletes. We cheer for the points they score and marvel at their feats, but how often do we stop and think about what’s going on behind that competitive and fiery front? Basketball star Caitlin Clark has always been open about this, reminding us that mental health matters—especially for youngsters trying to find their way.
The 2024 ROTY recently shared how important mental health support has been in her journey. “You know what? People forget we’re humans,” she said. “We have life outside of sport, we have problems outside of sports, we have great things outside of sport, and we’re dealing with that on top of trying to perform at the highest level.”
She spoke about how her university and Indiana Fever prioritized mental health, even providing a sports psychologist and therapist to help athletes with performance anxiety or personal struggles. They also traveled with the team.
ADVERTISEMENT Article continues below this ad
The Fever guard considers herself “lucky enough” to have been a part of a university (and now a franchise) that priortizes mental health. “It’s been very instrumental in shaping my career,” she added. Her advice? Talk to someone. “It’s okay not to be okay,” she emphasized. “Tell them about great things happening in your life and be proud of those.”
But you know this isn’t the first time CC has spoken about mental health. She’s been candid about her own challenges, admitting she’s not afraid to say, “You know what? Today’s just not my day.” In her words, “Not every day has to be perfect.”
She reminds us that it’s okay to reach out for help, whether it’s to manage the lows or to celebrate the highs. Although she has achieved quite a lot for her age, she knows she can’t ‘accomplish everything.’ Her transition from college to the pros might look glamorous, but not to forget it comes with a mountain of pressure.
Caitlin Clark’s transition to the pros: Challenges, growth, and advice from a legend
For Clark, when it comes to her fame and game, it was anything but a smooth ride as her ‘Caitlin Clark effect’ shined. As the No. 1 overall pick in the WNBA draft, she was immediately thrust into the spotlight. People weren’t just expecting her to excel in basketball—they were framing her as the next big thing to lift the league and women’s basketball as a whole.
That’s a heavy burden for anyone, let alone a 22-year-old fresh out of college. The Fever star admitted the weight of it all can be overwhelming. “Over the course of the last couple of months, honestly, I feel like I talked to the media more than I get to talk to my family, which is really kind of sad,” she shared.
She confessed that it’s just too much for a 22-year-old. “I absolutely love it, and I wouldn’t change it for the world, but just getting off social media has been the healthiest thing for me,” she added.
Her challenges resonated with another legendary tennis star, Serena Williams, who understands the pressure of being thrust into the limelight at a young age more than anyone. She offered Clark some heartfelt advice.
ADVERTISEMENT Article continues below this ad
ADVERTISEMENT Article continues below this ad
“I love that she tries to stay grounded,” the tennis player said. “She says she doesn’t look at her social [media]. I get it. I don’t either. It’s so important to continue to do what you’re doing, no matter what other people say. Hopefully, she’ll continue to do what she’s doing.”
And indeed, the 2024 draftee has managed to stay focused on her game despite the noise. Sure, she makes it look easy. Being a youth icon in basketball, dealing with the pressures of fame, and staying true to herself, all while excelling at the game she loves and enjoys is no small feat. Let’s watch her continue to inspire youth.
“People Forget We’re Humans”: Caitlin Clark Opens Up on Mental Health Battles, Sends Powerful Advice to Youngsters
