Despite being over 15 years removed from graduating high school, the Philadelphia Eagles’ offensive tackle Lane Johnson can remember the circumstances he faced at the time and, as a result, wants to help the current age of high school students, writes Olivia Reiner for The Philadelphia Inquirer. 

Growing up, Johnson faced the challenges of figuring out who his real friends were and struggling with self-confidence.

There is a piece of advice he wishes he had gotten at the time that he now shares with high school students.

“What I regret looking back is how much time I wasted wondering if I wouldn’t be enough, wondering all this, wondering all that. And what you got to realize is that you only have a certain amount that you can control,” said Johnson. 

Specifically, the Philadelphia Eagles player notes three things that you can control: your attitude, mindset, and the people you surround yourself with. 

Given his challenges with mental health, Johnson has partnered with mental health support provider, Kooth, to help others.

“I feel like maybe a lot of the local people in Philadelphia could resonate,” he said. 

He hopes that his openness about his struggles will help destigmatize the conversation surrounding mental health.

Read more about Lane Johnson’s mission to change the mental health landscape for young people at The Philadelphia Inquirer. 

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