INDIANAPOLIS — As we celebrate the 40th annual Circle City Classic, the Indiana Black Expo hosted a Mental Health Symposium.
On Thursday, student athletes at Warren Central High School listened to panelists from Indiana universities spoke to them about the importance of taking care of their mental health. Former NBA player Metta World Peace was also there.
"I just think that through my experiences is just so exciting for to be able to talk about this especially being a public figure and being able to give back at this rate and at this velocity and do it here in Indiana that's super exciting," said Metta.
Metta shared a personal story.
"Not only am I trying to make it in sports, I'm also trying to raise my child," said Metta.
He was 16. He made it to the NBA at the age of 19 and says he needed to address a lot of "demons" as he called it.
"I actually had to seek help and release the stigma," said Metta. "Here I am one of the most athletic players but I was still going through a lot."
Metta says he wanted to stay vulnerable so he could share his experience with others. Panelists told students it's OK to not to be OK.
"As a student athlete I didn't know that. As a professional I did not know that and as a Black man you couldn't say that you need help, but I want you to know it's a sign of strength and not weakness," said Isang Jacob, director of Wellness for MSD Pike Township.
Many students - knowing when something isn't right.
"I try to check in with myself if I can tell I'm getting really stressed out. In particular, I try to take a step back and tell myself I'm ok," said student Hannah Nicholas.
Others know when to reach out.
"I take my mental health very seriously just because I know how stressed I can get, so I will let my coaches know and they're very understanding," said student D'Aysia Jackson.
Support systems, panelists say, that can help students get through tough times.
"One of the things I told myself is I'll be vulnerable, so I can actually share it with others because there are a lot of people going through things that are afraid to share it," said Metta.
Panelists wanted all student to understand that mental health is real. If you or someone you know is in need of help, call 988 and speak with a trained crisis specialist 24/7.
You can also visit 988indiana.org.