Sk8 Mafia's professional skateboarder Brandon Turner has decided to open up about his battles with mental health, shedding light on the often overlooked aspect of core skateboarding.
Unlike his fellow pro skater Bam Margera, who has been in and out of rehab, releasing diss tracks to friends, Turner made a smart move to become a better version of himself.
Turner's decision to share his journey via The Ben Raemers Foundation is paramount in breaking the stigma surrounding mental health within the skate community.
The 41-year-old has been recognized as a skateboarding sensation for years, wowing audiences with his absurd video parts.
Behind the scenes, however, he has been silently grappling with the weight of mental health challenges that affected various aspects of his life and career.
He spoke about the immense pressure he faced as a professional skateboarder to maintain an image of strength and invincibility.
The relentless demands of rebel street skating and the constant need to party afterward took a toll on his mental well-being, leading to moments of self-doubt, anxiety, and even depression.
Like many extreme sports, the skateboarding industry glorifies risk-taking and valiant behavior.
However, the cultural norm can inadvertently create an environment where skaters feel hesitant to express their vulnerabilities.
Turner's candidness aims to change this narrative and foster a more empathetic and understanding community with the help of The Ben Raemers Foundation.