We felt that it was important to support our fellow professional hockey brethren and are happy to contribute FIRST LINE for use by the PHPA. From an impact perspective, we are seeing that FIRST LINE is giving Players more confidence to talk about mental health with others, they are experiencing less stigma towards mental health challenges, and they are gaining a greater appreciation for the unique mental health challenges elite athletes may encounter. Most importantly, Players are feeling more capable and willing to engage in mental health conversations, which is really what FIRST LINE is all about.
While everyone experiences difficult periods, changes in mood and behaviour can sometimes indicate a more serious issue. Depression is a growing concern, and many people struggle in silence due to a lack of awareness, embarrassment, or feelings of self-blame.
Depression is a real health issue - as real as a broken arm or torn muscle. It can affect how you feel about yourself and those around you, impact eating and sleeping habits, and take a toll on your physical health. If left untreated, depression can strain relationships, create challenges at work, lead to harmful behaviours such as drug and alcohol abuse, and last for weeks, months, or even years.
The good news is that depression is highly treatable, and you don’t have to do it alone. The REDLINE can help.
As a professional hockey player, you may occasionally need legal assistance. While your Agent or the PHPA can provide legal guidance in certain situations, sometimes the best option is to speak directly with an attorney.
Excludes Business & Employment Law
Resources: Lifeworks Complete "Will Kit"
Being away from family and friends is a common part of life as a professional hockey player. Whether travelling, relocating, or being away from your hometown, these challenges can be difficult for both players and their loved ones.
Research shows that strong relationships with family and friends can improve our health, increase happiness, and support overall well-being. Taking care of our relationships is an important part of taking care of ourselves.
Need support with important relationships in your life? Whether you’re facing challenges with a spouse, family member, friend, or child, the REDLINE can provide information and assistance when you need it.
Family Issues - Domestic Violence
Domestic violence can affect anyone, regardless of background or circumstances. If you or someone you care about is experiencing domestic violence, the REDLINE provides confidential support whenever you need it.
Resources:
Addiction can take many forms, including the use of drugs, alcohol, the internet, or gambling. While these behaviours may provide temporary relief from stress, depression, or anxiety, they can worsen problems over time and turn coping mechanisms into addiction.
Left untreated, substance abuse and addiction can negatively impact your health, relationships, and work. The good news is that treatment options are available, and the REDLINE can help connect you with resources wherever you are.
Resources: Access REDLINE's resources for Addiction on the Lifeworks website
Most people experience stress at some point in their lives. However, if feelings of stress or anxiety begin to interfere with your well-being, the REDLINE can help.
Resources:
Former NHL player Shane Corson opens up about anxiety problem: 'It took over my life'
Mental Health a big factor in pro hockey
Every player’s financial situation is unique. Regardless of your circumstances, understanding your expenses and planning for your financial future is always important.
The REDLINE provides financial support, from managing expenses and spending habits to saving for the future. Ceridian’s expert consultants provide the support, information, and resources you need.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a “concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury—or TBI—caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or by a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth.”
Many concussions occur without blacking out or being knocked unconscious. The severity of the injury depends on many factors and is not known until symptoms resolve and brain function is back to normal. Concussions are not created equally and, like all injuries, should be evaluated by your Club’s medical staff.
Common Concussion Symptoms:
Concussion symptoms can vary and may not appear until hours or days after the injury.
Symptoms may include:
Symptoms may worsen with physical or mental exertion (e.g., lifting, computer use, reading)
If you think you have/had a concussion:
Your brain is the most vital organ in your body. Practicing or playing while still experiencing symptoms can prolong the time it takes to recover and return to play.
While “playing through” other injuries may be tolerable and medically acceptable, “playing through” a concussion can lead to further injury and even death. Repetitive brain injury, when not managed promptly and properly, may cause permanent damage to your brain.
Not reporting your symptoms can seriously affect the quality of your life in the future.
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