Troubling News Regarding Vincent Desharnais' Past
Having just been promoted to the NHL from the AHL after a long slog, Vincent Desharnais' story is a feel-good one.
In 2016, Desharnais was drafted by the Edmonton Oilers, and after three years at Providence College, he moved onto minor-league hockey. During the early stages of his career, he would spend time in both the ECHL and AHL.
«My first pro season, I got a concussion. It ended up lasting longer, developed anxieties, started having anxiety attacks, started being depressed, which led to depression,» Desharnais explained. «I wanted to quit hockey. Wanted to quit on life, pretty much. I didn't want to be here anymore.
«At some point, it was either I go in the same direction, and it goes dark, or I get over my ego and the stubborn guy that doesn't need help, and that's what I did. I got over my ego and went to get help. It's probably the best thing I've ever done in my life, honestly. I'm so glad it happened, and I'm so glad that I went through that depression and learned to deal with anxiety. I've learned to deal with life; life happens every day. You don't control life.»
«At some point, it was either I go in the same direction, and it goes dark, or I get over my ego and the stubborn guy that doesn't need help, and that's what I did. I got over my ego and went to get help. It's probably the best thing I've ever done in my life, honestly. I'm so glad it happened, and I'm so glad that I went through that depression and learned to deal with anxiety. I've learned to deal with life; life happens every day. You don't control life.»
Tony Marinaro interviewed the 6'6" defenseman on The Sick Podcast and discussed his rise to the NHL and his struggles.
The concussion he sustained during the 2019-2020 season was the cause of his terrible mental health issues.
The stigma associated with illnesses or mental illnesses isn't easy for athletes, but Desharnais' step forward helped others by speaking out.
A new season is just around the corner, so Desharnais will likely have to compete again for a spot at training camp.
In 2022-2023, Desharnais played 36 NHL games, recording 5 assists and appearing in 12 NHL playoff games.
As Seen On: dailyhive.com
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Do you think Vincent Desharnais will continue to grow in the bottom-pair? | ||
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