In a statement posted to Twitter this morning, Patriots wide receiver Josh Gordon announced he would be stepping away from football to focus on his mental health.
“I take my mental health very seriously at this point to ensure I remain able to perform at the highest level,” Gordon wrote. “Recently, I’ve felt I could gain a better mental grasp. With that in mind, I will be stepping away from the football field to focus on my mental health.“
He also expressed gratitude to the Patriots organization, his coach, and fans for their support in his recovery journey. Gordon is reportedly facing an indefinite suspension from the NFL for violating the terms of his reinstatement under the substance abuse policy.
At Sunrise Recovery in Clarksville Indiana, we commend Gordon for prioritizing his mental health. When high-profile athletes and celebrities speak up about mental health and addiction, it helps combat the stigma surrounding these issues.
This isn’t the first time Gordon’s mental health has been in the spotlight.
Drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 2012, Gordon missed two games in the 2013 season for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy, but he still led the league in receiving yards that year, showcasing his potential as a star.
However, his off-field struggles soon overshadowed his career. In 2014, Gordon was arrested for driving while impaired and was limited to five games due to suspensions. He missed the entire 2015 season and part of 2016 after failing multiple drug and alcohol tests.
In 2016, after receiving a four-game suspension, Gordon left the Browns to enter an inpatient rehab facility in an effort to overcome his substance abuse issues. Over the course of his NFL career, Gordon has tested positive for substances such as marijuana, codeine, and alcohol, and has admitted to using Xanax and cocaine at times.
“[Seeking help] is the right decision for me, one that I hope will allow me to regain control of my life and fulfill my potential as a person,” Gordon said in his 2016 statement
Gordon made his return to football in 2017 and was later traded to the New England Patriots in 2018. During his 11 games with the Patriots, he recorded 40 receptions for 720 yards and three touchdowns.
In a 2017 Sports Illustrated profile, Gordon opened up about his challenging upbringing, which may have played a role in his struggles with substance abuse. Growing up in Houston, he was surrounded by gang violence and never expected to live past the age of 18.
But he did.
Now 33, Gordon is focused on making his mental health and sobriety a top priority in his life.
He’s not alone in speaking out about mental health. In March, Cleveland Cavaliers star Kevin Love wrote about his experiences with panic attacks during games. Likewise, former Toronto Raptors player DeMar DeRozan has been open about his battles with depression and anxiety, stating, “It’s nothing I’m ashamed of. Now, at my age, I understand how many people go through it.“
It’s encouraging to see athletes like Gordon, Love, and DeRozan share their stories and help break the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction. When high-profile figures speak out, it can shift the conversation and inspire others to seek help.
Addiction and mental health challenges are tough to face, but recovery becomes more manageable when patients receive the right support from medical professionals, family, and loved ones. Changing the stigma around these issues is difficult, but it can also save lives. Check also our Sunrise Reviews and stories of the people we helped.
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, we encourage you to reach out for help at +1 (877) 978 – 6747.
