During a media session at Fenway Park on Tuesday, Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran opened up about his choice to disclose in a Netflix documentary that he attempted suicide during the 2022 MLB season. In the fourth episode of the Netflix series, “The Clubhouse: A Year With the Red Sox,” Duran revealed he tried to end his life due to the overwhelming pressure and criticism he faced amid his struggles that summer.

On Tuesday, Duran admitted he hadn’t initially intended to share that part of his story in the documentary. However, he decided to speak out to highlight the challenges professional athletes encounter and to support others grappling with their own mental health issues. “The opportunity just presented itself,” Duran explained to reporters. “I was initially hesitant to bring it up, but then I realized it might help others who are reluctant to speak out.

So, I took a leap of faith, hoping it would do more good than harm.” He added, “My goal in sharing this is to let people know they aren’t alone. Helping even one person makes it worthwhile. I want to stress that help is always available and encourage people to reach out.” During the media gathering, NESN’s Tom Caron informed Duran that the Samaritans, a suicide prevention service, had experienced a threefold increase in calls and texts since his story became public on Monday.

“That means a lot,” Duran responded. “That’s why I shared my story. It’s hard to discuss, but I believed that if I could help even one individual, it would be meaningful. Hearing this is fantastic. I hope to inspire more open conversations.” Although Duran mentioned he had access to numerous resources to tackle his off-field struggles, he confessed he was initially reluctant to share his experiences.

“When you’re in the midst of it, you don’t really want to talk,” Duran stated. “It’s like a battle within yourself, and you tend to isolate from the world. It’s incredibly lonely. The resources are there, but you don’t want to be a burden.” Despite this initial reluctance, Duran emphasized the importance of speaking up about personal struggles. “I know it’s tough.

I never wanted to ask for help because I felt like a burden,” he admitted. “But many friends and family have assured me that you’re never a burden to someone who cares about you.” Duran also noted that despite his openness, professional athletes still find it challenging to discuss mental health issues openly.

“Talking about it is still difficult because people often view us as invincible, thinking they can say anything without affecting us,” Duran acknowledged. “They forget we’re human too. Fans will continue to be fans and criticize us. However, discussing these issues more might encourage athletes to reach out to one another for support.”