Maple Leafs forward Nick Paul is making a donation towards mental health awareness as he's showing a side not often seen from an NHL player.
The topic of mental health isn't exactly a well-discussed topic in the NHL. Though there is the NHLPA Player Assistance Program which can help with any issues a player may encounter in their career, as well as initiatives like First Line and Hockey Talks - it's less talked about than it should be.
It feels almost taboo at times, and often times you've heard that hockey players need to 'suck it up' and 'tough it out,' - an old-school mentality if there ever was one.
Players are only human at the end of the day, and we've seen players like Joseph Woll talk about how important mental health awareness is, and even made a donation for every home win and managed to raise over $80,000 in his efforts.
Nick Paul reveals a softer side with dedication to mental health awareness
Well we have another player joining those who stress the importance of mental health as Toronto Maple Leafs forward Nick Paul has put forth his initiative called the 'Points for Paul' campaign.
Paul will donate $150 per point he scores this season to Jack.org - a Canadian charity who's mission statement is to 'By empowering youth to understand mental health, support their peers, and advocate for change, we build a future where youth can thrive.'
The Toronto forward spoke openly about his issues with mental health and how his friend's unfortunate passing led him to start focusing and learning more about mental health and its effects:
When I was younger, I didn't truly understand what mental health was all about. When my friend died by suicide, I wanted to do something. I started this initiative because I wanted to honour him and help others.
That's a terrible tragedy for Paul to experience and clearly he wants to ensure that any youths who are struggling aren't left in the dark. He still dealt with mental health concerns when he was breaking into the NHL, as social media and criticism got to him.
Why addressing mental health is critical for pro athletes
Not only is what Paul is doing an admirable act in terms of donating tangible and financial help to Jack.org, but he's also opening up a conversation that needs to be discussed more overall in professional sports.
If others around the league or other sports feel like they aren't being heard, or are struggling themselves, then seeing their peers speak so freely about their struggles could open the door for them to get the help they need.
But more importantly it sets an example for all the young fans who look up to guys like Paul. It provides an air of relatability that you don't necessarily find in the realm of pro sports. In this larger-than-life idea of a million-dollar athlete - at the core they are still dealing with things like us.
No one should feel alone, whether you're the greatest player in the world or a young kid trying to manage life on a day to day basis. It's something Paul has stressed and will continue to for the rest of his career:
Don't be afraid to talk to somebody. If you are able to talk to somebody, you might create a connection with someone who is also going through their own struggles. They won't judge you for what you are going through.
I always thought that people would judge me or have this opinion of me, but that wasn't the reality. People want to help you, so don't ever be afraid to take those steps.
Paul's absolutely correct, and to quote an iconic voice in media, Mr. Rogers:
'Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.'
If you or anyone are struggling with mental health concerns please do not hesitate to reach out to 9-8-8 (Crisis Line), or visit CMHA.ca; and for youths aged 5-29, please reach out to Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868.
Do you think NHL players should do more for mental health awareness?
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