Pittsburgh Steelers WR Martavis Bryant is taking some time off to deal with his mental health. Bryant, who’s facing a one year suspension for missing multiple drug tests, has announced that he is also struggling with depression. For that reason, he will be checking in to a rehab facility for evaluation.
Missing a drug test is the equivalent to failing the NFL’s substance abuse policy. Bryant previously missed the first four games of the regular season while serving a suspension for his first violation. For his second violation, he faces a year ban.
“We’re all stunned, me included,” said Bryant’s agent, Brian Fettner. “We clearly miscalculated the issue. His isn’t a party issue. It’s a coping issue and a depression issue, and he’s got to take care of it.”
“This is the biggest cry for help I’ve ever seen. And that hurts. It hurts us to see,” Fettner continued. “He’s 24 years old and he’s got to get right, whatever it is. If you talk to anybody’s family that has depression, they will be talking about these same things — the (despondence), the withdrawal, the head-in-the-sand despair — just trying to cope.”
Martavis Bryant is considering one of three rehab facilities. He will check himself in as early as Sunday. Hopefully he gets the help he needs. Depression is no joke.
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