Content Warning: This episode contains discussion of suicide and mental health struggles. If you or someone you know needs help, contact the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 (U.S.)Sports shape culture — and culture shapes how we talk about mental health.

In this special episode of the Peak Sports Psychiatry Podcast, we’re joined by an incredible team from All Points North (APN)—Courtney Messina, Ros Wilson, and former NFL player and coach Michael Wilhoite.

This conversation also marks the beginning of an exciting partnership between Peak Sports Psychiatry and APN, as we collaborate to support athletes and high-performing individuals transitioning from higher levels of care into outpatient settings.

In Part 1, we explore the often-unspoken challenges surrounding mental health in sport, including:

• The structural and cultural barriers that prevent athletes from seeking care
• The role of stigma, time demands, and confidentiality concerns

• Why trust is central to effective mental health support
• The impact of identity, performance pressure, and athletic culture

• How peer support and shared experience can unlock meaningful engagement in care

Drawing from lived experience, clinical expertise, and work with elite athletes across professional and collegiate levels, this episode offers an honest look at what’s working—and what still needs to change.

Part 2 will dive deeper into group therapy, practical strategies, and how to better engage athletes in mental health care.