DeMar DeRozan, a six-time NBA All-Star and Olympic gold medalist, opens up about his journey from the challenges of growing up in Compton to becoming a prominent advocate for mental health. He discusses the importance of therapy, empowerment, and building resilience amidst adversity. DeRozan shares heartfelt anecdotes about family, fatherhood, and his evolving relationship with basketball, all while promoting his new memoir, 'Above the Noise.' His experiences highlight the power of community and the vital need for openness in sports.
DeMar DeRozan's childhood in Compton was shaped by love from his family amid the harsh realities of gang violence.
His openness about mental health struggles aims to challenge societal expectations and reduce the stigma surrounding depression in athletes.
The strong support from teammates and coaches throughout his career, especially during personal challenges, greatly contributed to his emotional resilience.
Deep dives
The Impact of Growing Up in Compton
Growing up in Compton, California, Demar DeRozan experienced a childhood marked by love from a large, close-knit family amid the harsh realities of gang violence. Despite the supportive environment provided by his parents and relatives, the prevalent violence and loss of life in his community were constant challenges. DeRozan reveals how normalcy was shaped by the dangers surrounding him, where the risks were later recognized only through exposure to contrasting environments. His journey to understanding the need for a different life was sparked by basketball, which opened the door to experiences beyond the confines of Compton.
The Struggles with Loss and Violence
DeRozan detailed the enduring impact of witnessing violence and losing loved ones, including a close friend and relatives involved in gangs. He highlights how the normalization of such violence can trap children in cycles of trauma and despair upon realizing the harsh realities of their environment. The cumulative trauma from these experiences affected his mental health, leading to struggles with depression later in life. His escape through sports not only offered him a reprieve but also a profound insight into the opportunities that existed beyond his neighborhood.
The Role of Family and Mentorship
Demar emphasizes the influence of his father, who instilled in him values such as hard work and resilience while navigating life’s challenges in a dangerous environment. His father’s tough love and emphasis on making the right decisions guided DeRozan through adversity, providing him with a moral compass. Additionally, the presence of supportive figures, like his uncle who organized after-school programs, showcased the importance of mentorship in steering children away from negative influences. This strong familial foundation was vital for DeRozan, allowing him to persevere in an often unforgiving world.
The Journey of Recognizing Mental Health
DeRozan opened up about his mental health struggles, particularly how they were exacerbated by the societal expectation of athletes as invulnerable figures. His candid tweet about depression sparked significant conversations, revealing the deeper emotional battles faced by many who appear strong on the outside. By sharing his experiences, DeRozan aimed to break the stigma surrounding mental illness and encourage others to seek help, recognizing how vital it is for healing. Therapy became a crucial part of his journey, illustrating that addressing mental health is a continuous process, much like developing athletic skills.
The Influence of Professional Relationships
DeRozan describes how the support provided by his teammates and coaches throughout his career greatly impacted his personal growth. A pivotal moment came when coach Gregg Popovich provided emotional support during a time of personal loss, highlighting the importance of leadership that prioritizes empathy and connection. Teams that foster strong bonds, built on understanding and care for one another, often achieve the greatest success in sports. DeRozan's experiences reflect how mutual support and an emotional connection in professional sports can help athletes navigate both the highs and lows of their careers.
DeMar DeRozan is a six-time NBA All Star and an Olympic gold medalist. But perhaps the defining legacy of his career will be his decision to speak out about his struggles with depression and mental health. He joined David to talk about growing up in Compton, California, surrounded by both gang violence and a strong, loving family; basketball as an escape; his drive to excel; the importance of speaking out about mental health; and his new book, “Above the Noise: My Story of Chasing Calm.”
