Braden Smith's Comeback: A Spectacular Journey Post Mental Health Struggles

A New Beginning for Braden Smith

For many NFL players, training camp is the unofficial start of the season. But for Indianapolis Colts offensive lineman Braden Smith, it marks a significant milestone in his personal journey. This year, Smith returns to camp not only physically healthy but also mentally stronger than ever before. His mental health struggles last season made this return even more meaningful.

Smith described his current state as "spectacular," saying it's the best he's felt in a long time. However, just eight months ago, things were very different. Before Thanksgiving, Smith arrived at the Colts Complex as usual but quickly left after reaching the parking lot. He experienced what he called a "mental collapse" and went home for a nap. His wife hoped he would feel better when he woke up, but that wasn’t the case.

"It was pretty dark," Smith said. "That’s when we decided as a collective — me and my wife — that I needed to get help."

The next day, Smith shared his struggles with the Colts offensive line and then chose to end his season early to seek treatment. He spent 48 days in a treatment facility where he was diagnosed with religious scrupulosity, a severe form of OCD. It was in Mexico that Smith found the right medication to manage his condition.

"I was just trying to be alive this time this year," Smith explained. "I wasn’t thinking about anything. I just wanted to find joy in life, and for a while there, it didn’t feel like I was going to find that again. Just being out here is a plus for me."

Mental Health Awareness and Support

Mental health awareness has always been a priority for the Colts organization. Their award-winning initiative, Kicking the Stigma, has played a key role in creating an environment where players feel comfortable discussing their challenges. Smith credits this campaign for giving him the confidence to open up about his struggles last season.

"The thing I was going through seems very taboo," Smith said. "You seem like you’re kind of going crazy. I know other people are going through the same thing, so I want them to feel empowered hearing about my story. Seeing that I came out of the other side of it shows them they’re not going crazy. That this is very normal. These things happen."

Smith received strong support from the entire Colts organization throughout his journey. From the Irsays to his coaches and teammates, everyone stood by him. Head coach Shane Steichen praised Smith's resilience and the support from the team.

"The whole team had his back through the whole thing," Steichen said. "To have him back out here, what he went through, is great. The support from the organization and teammates shows the family we’ve got here."

Grateful for Every Moment

Smith expressed how much he appreciates the support he received. He realized how much he took for granted until those moments were taken away.

"You take things for granted until those parts are kind of taken away from you," he said. "Now, I just have that greater appreciation for being able to come out and play football, hang out with the guys. Every day is awesome."

Back on the field, Smith is exactly where he belongs. On the right side of the Colts offensive line, ready to contribute and inspire others. His journey serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health and the strength it takes to overcome challenges.