Former professional football players Zac Stacy and Marcus Smith II discuss anxiety, suicidal ideation, and mental health in the Black community with licensed professional counselor Tami Romano. Zac recalls how his anxiety started in childhood and persisted through adulthood. He left the NFL to treat physical injuries and support his family, later attending treatment at APN for anxiety in anticipation of the birth of his son. After serving jail time for a domestic violence charge and struggling with suicidal ideation, Zac returned to APN to get to the root of his mental health issues. Now, on the other side of his darkest moments, Zac has found self-awareness, self-acceptance, and a second chance to show his son and the world how he found strength in vulnerability.
This episode was created and produced by Keith Weiner. Show design by Jenn Hu, Molly Eddington, and Eber Marin. Copy editing and quality analysis by Jess Johnson. Special thanks to Vanessa Detwiler for supporting this program and spreading awareness through email marketing.
