Why Mental Health Took Center Court During NBA All-Star Weekend
Psychology Today
by Brook Choulet M.D.February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Mental health took center stage during the NBA All-Star Weekend, marking a significant cultural shift in how elite athletes view strength, resilience, and identity. The event highlighted a growing recognition of the emotional challenges faced by professional athletes, with discussions centered on vulnerability, pressure, and the importance of expressing feelings rather than suppressing them. This was exemplified by a collaboration between five-time NBA All-Star Kevin Love and filmmaker Tyree Dillihay, who brought together youth, teens, and adults to discuss emotional resilience in high-performance athletics. Their conversation was part of an initiative supported by the Kevin Love Fund and Sony Pictures Animation, which developed a youth-focused curriculum based on the animated film *GOAT*. The curriculum aims to teach kids about emotional awareness, growth mindsets, and navigating pressures tied to performance.
The traditional narrative in sports culture often prioritized physical toughness over emotional vulnerability, with athletes being expected to "suck it up" and move on from mental struggles. However, this approach has been increasingly criticized for its negative impact on long-term well-being. Studies show that suppressing emotions correlates with higher stress levels, anxiety, and mood disorders. This shift in perspective is crucial, as it challenges outdated norms within sports culture and promotes a more holistic understanding of strength—one that includes emotional awareness and resilience.
The event also underscored the importance of identity in high-stress environments. Athletes and professionals often define themselves by
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Originally published on Psychology Today on 2/19/2026