Zirin wrote, "In the NFL, there is no worse sin than failure, and players are expected to shake off losses, injuries, and criticism.

In football, it is well understood that performance-enhancing drugs, legal and otherwise, are part of that process -- just not antidepressants." However, "in such a high-pressure sport," like professional football, the fact that depression is prevalent "shouldn't surprise anybody.

Studies show that repeated concussions is linked to depression." Zirin noted one player, Shawn Andrews, of the Philadelphia Eagles, who publicly spoke about his depression. "But the Eagles didn't see Andrews' mental health as a legitimate medical problem and fined him $15,000 for every practice he missed. That wouldn't have happened to a player with a sprained knee."

Zirin concluded that "the NFL, rather than take the opportunity to educate fans about a disease millions of men face, just pumps up the music again. ... Let's hope more people like Andrews break the silence before tragedy strikes."

Related Links:

- "The NFL's in denial about depression," Dave Zirin, Los angeles Times, September 21, 2008.