June 27 is PTSD Awareness Day

Darryl Clack, a former NFL player, has become an ardent advocate for mental health awareness, particularly in the realm of sports. Through his memoir, Hear My Story Before I Forget, Clack shares his personal journey with PTSD, aiming to inspire athletes and others to understand that they can not only live with PTSD but also treat it successfully.

A Personal Battle

In his book, Clack opens up about the mental health challenges he faced after experiencing multiple concussions during his football career. He candidly discusses the symptoms of PTSD and depression that followed, reflecting on the dark times when uncertainty loomed large. Clack emphasizes that acknowledging these struggles is the first step toward healing.

The Importance of Advocacy

As an advocate, Clack focuses on educating athletes about the potential impacts of concussions and the importance of mental health. He uses his memoir as a tool during speaking engagements, sharing personal anecdotes and insights to connect with his audience on a deeper level. By sharing his story, he aims to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues and foster an environment where open discussions are welcomed. He encourages athletes to prioritize their well-being and seek help when needed.

Finding Strength in Community

Clack’s journey is also a testament to the power of community support. He highlights the crucial roles that family, friends, and faith played in his recovery process. Clack believes that reaching out for help and building a strong support network can make a significant difference in managing PTSD. His message is clear: no one has to face their struggles alone.

A Message of Hope

Through his advocacy, Clack inspires others to take charge of their mental health. He shares practical coping strategies and emphasizes the importance of professional help. His story serves as an encouraging reminder that recovery is possible and that living a fulfilling life after a PTSD diagnosis is achievable.

Darryl Clack’s commitment to raising awareness about PTSD showcases his determination to help others. His message resonates deeply within the athletic community and beyond, encouraging individuals to embrace their vulnerabilities and seek the support they need.

About Darryl Clack

Inducted into the 2006 Colorado Springs Hall of Fame and the Colorado High School Hall of Fame in 1993, Darryl Clack began his college football career at Arizona State University in the 1982 season, becoming the first freshman to lead the Sun Devils in rushing in 30 years. His freshman season culminated in the Sun Devils' victory over Oklahoma in the Fiesta Bowl, with Clack scoring a third-quarter touchdown. Even as a freshman, his popularity galvanized Arizona State fans, leading to the sale of metal noisemakers known as "Darryl Clackers" by stadium vendors.

He continued to excel at Arizona State, leading the Pacific-10 Conference with an average of 93.2 yards rushing per game in his sophomore year and rushing for over 1,000 yards, earning MVP honors in his junior year. His promising collegiate career was cut short when a broken leg sidelined him for seven games as a senior.

The Dallas Cowboys drafted him in the second round of the 1986 NFL Draft, positioning him as a backup and potential successor to Tony Dorsett. With Herschel Walker's arrival, Clack was relegated to returning kickoffs and became the NFC's third-leading kickoff returner in 1988.

In 1990, he signed with the Cleveland Browns. In 1991, he joined the Toronto Argonauts of the Canadian Football League, where he played in the Grey Cup championship game. In 1992, he signed with the Orlando Thunder of the World League of American Football, becoming the team's starter at running back and receiving All-World League honors at the end of the season.

After his football career, Clack returned to school, earning a B.A. in Kinesiology and Sports Studies from the University of Texas at El Paso and an M.A. in Organizational Management from the University of Phoenix. He was in his first year of pursuing a Ph.D. when he fell ill with Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP), a rare blood disorder that he is currently being treated for and managing successfully.

Get a copy of the book here and keep up with Darryl Clack at www.darrylclack.com.