In 1981, after
labouring in relative obscurity, a long and lean lightweight from Nicaragua,
devastated one Ray “Bam Bam” Mancini, tearing the World Lightweight
Championship from his hands. A relative unknown, Alexis Arguello, now a World
Champion proceeded to hug and kiss Mancini in an extension of friendship. Such
was the nature of the man known as the “Explosive thin Man”. A polar opposite of
his pugilistic persona, Alexis opened charities, became a politician and
advocated for change in his impoverished country. Alexis would once again shock
the world, as he did in 1981, with news of his suicide in 2009.
In recent years the discussion of mental health challenges amongst
athletes, both amateur and professional has erupted in the wake of such
detriment that befell Alexis. Talk of Traumatic Brain Injuries, Mood Disorders
and experiences of Addiction have become almost mainstream in conversation with
athletics. Commonly, the discussion has revolved around sports of extreme risk:
football, hockey and combative sports. Research into the effects of post
concussive disorders, acute trauma and the experiences of duress have begun to
unravel the effects of mental instability in those we consider to be the pinnacles
of our humanity.
The weekend warrior, studied fan, amateur and budding professionals in the
realm of sport and competition have idolized those who pioneered their
respective fields. Terry Bradshaw, celebrated Quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers,
suffered in silence from anxiety and depression. As does former Speed Skating
Olympic champion Clara Hughes and Olympic Sailing competitor Oliver Bone. These
are only a small collection of well-known athletes who have, in recent years,
divulged their challenges. For individuals who dedicate their lives to being
the example of human physical potential, what has caused them to suffer so
heavily mentally?
