As the icon of mental health awareness in the NBA, Cleveland Cavaliers forward Kevin Love continues to build upon his cause.
The Cavs star is no stranger to speaking up about mental health, as he has made it clear over the years that his goal is to remove the stigma surrounding the issue.
Initially, Love disclosed his own struggles in 2018. He has also given credit to DeMar DeRozan multiple times, as the San Antonio Spurs star was the one who gave him the courage to speak up. Since then, the Cavs vet has become an icon by avidly raising awareness on mental health issues.
“I hope one day we are able to erase the stigma around anxiety and depression, and we can only do that by improving diagnosis and treatment, fostering public conversations about mental health and encouraging people to seek help when they need it,” Kevin Love stated, via ESPN.
Now, as part of his advocacy, Love donated $500,000 to UCLA’s psychology department through his foundation. The Cavs forward, who played one season for the Bruins in 2007-08, wants to help his alma mater in their efforts with the battle against anxiety and depression.
Notably, this news came one day after Love received the Arthur Ashe Courage Award at the ESPYS for his work in mental health.
“When heroes like Kevin come forward and share their vulnerability, it shines a light on anxiety and depression, and that helps chip away at stigma. I want to thank Kevin for his leadership and his courage to share his personal story with the world. He has inspired and provided hope to many. Through his continued efforts, he is changing people’s lives,” said Michelle Craske, a UCLA professor in psychology, psychiatry and biobehavioral sciences.