Shaquille O’Neal revealed how he helps homeless people in the city of Los Angeles in the most recent episode of his podcast. The Big Diesel has always been a trailblazer to help other people in the community. In the most recent episode of his Big Podcast, Shaquille O’Neal opened up on how seeing homeless people on the streets hurt his soul.

Licensed psychotherapist and social worker Liz Beecroft appeared on Shaq’s podcast this week to talk about the stigma of mental health awareness among athletes. According to Beecroft, athletes often tend to suppress their mental health problems to maintain a facade of toughness in public. Therefore, it is necessary to dispel the stigma around athletes talking about their struggles with mental health issues.

On the other hand, Shaq contested her beliefs and underlined the importance of mental fortitude in athletes. According to the Lakers legend, professional athletes have a responsibility to push through adversity and perform under any circumstances. The NBA veteran also expressed his dislike for athletes with exorbitant contracts, using mental health as an excuse to shirk responsibility for their ineptitude.

Shaquille O’Neal reveals how he helps the homeless in LA

Shaquille O’Neal, meanwhile, narrated a story to support his argument. Early in his career, the 7’1″ giant used to feel a lot of pressure during games. Therefore, his father took him to a homeless family on the streets.

“Pressure is when you don’t know where your next meal is coming from,” Shaq’s father had said. As a result, he doesn’t like to see wealthy athletes complaining about psychological issues. According to the four-time NBA champion, athletes have an added responsibility to perform under any adverse circumstance.

As it turns out, the plight of homeless people in America really hurts Shaq’s soul. In fact, he tries to help them out as much as he can. For that reason, he’s so hard on athletes complaining all the time despite all the opportunities in the palm of their hand.

Read More: Shaquille O’Neal Was Once Destroyed by Angry Father for Bratty Behavior Despite Cars and Houses: “Pressure is when you don’t know when your next meal is coming”

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“When I go give a guy $100,” said Shaq. “Say, hey, man, get something to eat. That’s helping out, a little bit. What about next week?”

Shaq’s wish to help more people

There has been a big influx of homelessness in California, especially after the pandemic. While talking about helping out the homeless, Shaq mentioned how watching the helpless suffer made his heart bleed.

In other words, he wished he could help them all. However, seeing the homeless brace their plight stoically has made Shaq tougher on athletes.

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Do you agree with Shaq’s opinion on athletes’ mental health? Comment your opinions below.