1 week Ago By LW
offensive tackle is sharing his remarkable story of recovery outside of the , shedding light on the mental health battle that sidelined him for the final five games of last season. Smith revealed that he was diagnosed with religious scrupulosity, a type of that consumed him to the point of contemplating suicide. His openness highlights the challenges athletes face behind the scenes, even as they excel in their professional careers.
Religious scrupulosity, according to the International OCD Foundation, creates obsessive anxiety about adhering to religious practices and avoiding actions perceived as sinful. For Smith, this led to hours spent daily on and repetitive thoughts. "I was physically present, but I was nowhere to be found," Smith recounted.
He admitted he no longer cared about football or spending time with his wife and newborn son, feeling like he was on the brink of self-destruction. Determined to find help, Smith sought psychological support early last season, eventually entering a mental health facility in Colorado for 48 days. Despite weeks of treatment, his condition showed only limited improvement.
A trip to Mexico to try and save himself As a last resort, he turned to ibogaine, a psychedelic substance not legal in the U.S. but showing promise in scientific studies for treating mental health issues.
Smith for ibogaine treatment and credits the experience as a turning point in his recovery. Now, Smith reports feeling much more in control of his thoughts and emotions. "I don't do compulsive prayers at all anymore," he shared.
His renewed clarity and stability have allowed him to focus on football once again. The Colts expressed confidence in Smith's readiness to return. General manager stated, "Braden Smith is back, and he's in a great spot.
I think people forget how good Braden is." Despite restructured contract terms reducing his salary cap figure, Smith is motivated to prove his worth on the field, saying, "I want to be me again here, and I want the people around me to experience that, because I do feel like I do have something to offer the people around me." Smith's journey is a testament to the importance of addressing mental health and finding pathways to healing.
As he steps back into his role with the Colts, Smith's resilience serves as an inspiring reminder that recovery is possible, even in the face of profound personal challenges..
