Ryan Strome was a part of the Breaking the Ice panel during Canadian Music Week in support of 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline.
On June 5, Ducks forward Ryan Strome joined Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Joseph Woll and Papa Roach frontman, Jacoby Shaddix, for a panel presented by Canadian Music Week titled 'Breaking the Ice: Uniting Rock Stars and Athletes in Mental Health Advocacy'.
The idea of the panel writes the NHLPA's Chris Lomon, is intended to "empower others to prioritize mental well-being while delivering the message that help is available to anyone who needs it through numerous services, including the 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline, which launched in Canada in November 2023."
“I know it is easier said than done, but talking to someone can make all the difference in the world," Strome said. “That’s why something like the 9-8-8 number is so important. There is someone on the other end of that line who is going to pick up, listen, hear you and recognize you."
Strome also stressed how important it is for people to recognize that mental health affects everyone, even professional athletes. "As a hockey player," he said, "There are times when you tend to keep things to yourself. But with so many resources now, you are doing yourself a disservice if you don't reach out to someone who wants to help you. The NHLPA has done a great job of being there for players at every turn."
There is still a stigma surrounding mental health, especially in professional sports. When athletes like Strome and Woll are more open about their mental health challenges, it can give others confidence to do the same.
“As athletes, we have an opportunity to be role models," Strome said. "But we are humans too. We are vulnerable and we have things that we go through as well.
“I think it is about putting yourself out there. I have been given the chance to learn from some great people. It makes you want to run towards the challenge, not run away from it.”