Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran has opened up about a deeply personal struggle, shedding light on the critical issue of mental health in professional sports. In a candid April 2025 interview with the Associated Press, Duran revealed a suicide attempt in 2022, a moment that nearly ended his life and career. His story of recovery, fueled by therapy and support, is sparking conversations about athlete well-being and the need for accessible resources. Jarren Duran’s mental health journey offers a powerful message of hope for others facing silent battles.
A Dark Moment in 2022
In his recent AP interview, Jarren Duran shared the harrowing experience of attempting suicide in 2022. The outfielder described hitting a low point, overwhelmed by pressures that many athletes face but few discuss publicly. While specific details of the incident remain private, Duran’s willingness to speak out highlights the often-hidden emotional toll of professional sports. His story underscores a growing recognition that even high-performing athletes are not immune to mental health struggles.
Finding Strength Through Therapy
Duran credits his recovery to dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), a form of treatment that focuses on managing intense emotions and building coping skills. He explained in the interview how DBT provided him with tools to navigate his darkest moments and rebuild his mental resilience. This therapeutic approach, often used for conditions like borderline personality disorder and severe depression, proved transformative for Duran, offering a lifeline when he needed it most.
Breaking the Stigma in Sports
By sharing his story, Duran aims to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health in professional athletics. Athletes are often expected to project toughness and invincibility, leaving little room for vulnerability. Duran’s disclosure challenges this narrative, showing that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. His openness could inspire other players to confront their own struggles without fear of judgment or career repercussions.
Red Sox Step Up Support
In response to growing awareness of mental health needs, the Boston Red Sox have implemented weekly mindfulness sessions for players and staff. These sessions, introduced as part of the club’s wellness initiatives, aim to provide a safe space for athletes to manage stress and build emotional awareness. Duran’s story likely played a role in amplifying the importance of such programs, ensuring that players have regular access to mental health resources directly within their professional environment.
MLB’s Broader Commitment
Beyond the Red Sox, Major League Baseball is taking steps to address mental health across the league. The MLB Players Trust has committed to funding a comprehensive study on athlete help-seeking rates, with results expected by spring 2026. This research will examine how often players seek mental health support, what barriers they face, and how leagues can better facilitate access to care. The initiative reflects a league-wide push to prioritize player well-being alongside physical performance.
The Bigger Picture of Athlete Mental Health
Duran’s experience is part of a larger conversation about mental health in sports, where high stakes and relentless scrutiny can take a significant toll. Recent years have seen more athletes, from gymnast Simone Biles to swimmer Michael Phelps, speaking out about their struggles. Resources like the National Alliance on Mental Illness ( NAMI ) provide critical support and education on mental health challenges. Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC Mental Health ) offers data and tools to address mental health crises, emphasizing the importance of early intervention.
A Call to Action for Players
Jarren Duran’s mental health journey carries a clear message for his peers: help is available, and asking for it can save lives. His story serves as a reminder that behind the highlight reels and packed stadiums, athletes are human, grappling with the same emotional challenges as anyone else. Duran hopes his transparency will encourage others in the MLB and beyond to reach out, whether through team resources or personal support networks.
Looking Ahead in 2025
As mental health continues to gain attention in professional sports, 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for change. With initiatives like the Red Sox’s mindfulness sessions already in place and the MLB Players Trust study on the horizon, there’s momentum to create lasting support systems. Duran’s courage in sharing his story could be the catalyst for more players to prioritize their mental well-being, fostering a culture where seeking help is as routine as physical training.