Brandon Marshall - Embracing Vulnerability to Inspire Others

Through the lens of the media, Brandon Marshall had it all. He was one of the NFL’s best wide receivers and was also among the highest paid players in the league. Off the field, however, Brandon’s life was falling apart.

As a professional athlete of one of the country’s favorite sports, any misstep on or off the field is amplified by the media on a global scale. After a series of issues he couldn’t ignore, Brandon admitted himself to McLean Hospital where he would stay for 3 months.

During his stay at McLean Hospital, Brandon was diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder. Rather than hide his stigmatized mental illness from the world, he shared it on a global stage so that anyone else struggling silently could find strength in his story.

When asked why Brandon decided to go public, Brandon’s reasoning was simple:

“By telling my story someone’s going to hear it and be freed. Someone’s going to hear it and have hope. Someone’s going to hear it and potentially save their life”.

Megan Armstrong was one such person who found hope in Brandon’s public battle with his disorder. Megan was suffering from Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Depression, and suicidal thoughts when she came across Brandon’s story.

If you’re struggling with any type of disease, disorder, or mental health issue, it’s important to know that there are other people out there that you can relate to. Knowing that other people are currently dealing with, or have overcome, the same kinds of issues you’re facing is a great step towards recovery.