Former NHLer shares he attempted suicide as he advocates for mental health

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Sam Hutch
April 19, 2022 (9:29)

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Stephen Johns was drafted in the second round (60th overall) by the Chicago Blackhawks. The 6»4' 234 pound rear guard broke in to the National Hockey League with the Dallas Stars during the 2016-17 NHL season. John's played a total of 167 games in the NHL before retiring this season after sitting out the entirety of the 2020-21 season as well.

Since then, Johns has become a mental health advocate breaking down the proverbial 3rd wall that for the most part still exists in professional sports today. Yesterday, April 18th was Johns 30th birthday. He took to Twitter to share a message:

Today is a weird day for me. It's hard to actually put into words, but shouldn't be here to see 30. shouldn't have seen 28 or 29 either.

l've struggled for years, dating back to my teenage years. let my darkness come out in so many different ways over the years, damaging everything in my path. I've lost countless friendships which led me to the emptiness and sickness wish upon no one. The feelings of reaching the high points in my life and career had no comparison to the lows I was dealing with. And 3 years ago, I wanted it all to be over.

Not many people know about my attempt, because I've also kept that burrowed inside for years..but if my story can help 1 person.. then maybe there really is a reason we're all here.

I wish could go back in time, as we all do. But for some reason, I got lucky that day. To anyone out there struggling, it's never too late to turn things around. Suicide is never the answer. No one on this Earth is alone.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
1-800-273-8255

Say what you will about current or former athletes «sticking to their sports» I for one, think being open, honest and vulnerable shows growth as well as healing.

For anyone. Anytime. Anywhere. Mental health doesn't discriminate. It's okay not to be okay. What matters is recognizing it, taking some time for ourselves or in some cases(depending on circumstances) reaching out for help.

It's not often you see a current or former pro athlete be so vulnerable on social media and it's a great reminder that even if you feel you're alone, you're not.