Solomon Thomas: Hercules is Human Too

TW: suicide  Drafted third overall in 2017, Solomon Thomas knows what it’s like to have a target on his back. His true battles, however, have never been on the field but in trying to dismantle archaic stigmas around mental health while working through the grief of his sister’s suicide. He talks about growing up with his older sister Ella, how close he was to his family, and when they first noticed Ella was struggling. He stresses the importance of checking in on your strong friends and discusses his journey with his own mental health. He explains how therapy has allowed him to put into words feelings that he didn’t even have the language for as he navigates his journey with grief. The three discuss what mental health looks like in the world of the NFL and the positive changes Solomon has seen since his rookie year. He explains why whole health is important to him as an athlete, and discusses his non-profit, The Defensive Line, on a mission to end the epidemic of youth suicide, especially for people of color.  Be sure to keep up with Solomon @sollythomas90 and check out The Defensive Line  If you or someone you love is struggling with suicidal thoughts, we beg you to seek support.   Call: Lifeline 1800 273 8255 (USA Only)  Text: CNQR to 741 741 Crisis Text Line (USA Only)  Visit: www.suicide.org (International Phone Numbers)  You can also find resources, including BetterHelp, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, National Suicide Prevention Hotline, and more at www.lemonsbytay.com/resources  Thanks to our sponsors for supporting this episode:  Blissy — Get better sleep now with Blissy and use code THESQUEEZE to get an additional 30% off at blissy.com/THESQUEEZE  Mosh — Head to moshlife.com/THESQUEEZE to save 20% off plus FREE shipping on your first 6-count Trial Pack  To email us your questions or share your story, you can reach out to [email protected]. Be sure to rate, review, and follow the podcast so you don't miss an episode! Plus, follow us on Instagram, @thesqueeze and personally @taylautner and @taylorlautner.   To learn more from The Lemons Foundation, follow @lemonsbytay on Instagram and visit lemonsbytay.com  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices