“A Lot of My Peers Suffered”- Tony Hawk Opens Up on Mental Health Awareness in 90s to Present Scenario

The sport of skateboarding has evolved through generations to become what it is now, a major global brand. One person who is responsible for that is Tony Hawk. He helped the sport to progress from counterculture to an incredible brand in the world. With the sport being open to perception, Hawk spoke about the troubles he had while skating back in the 80s and 90s.

Especially with the pressure he had, mental health struggles were prevalent. In a recent interview, he talked about the experiences of skateboarding back then. Now that his son Riley Hawk is having fun with skateboarding, Hawk asked the new generation of skaters to embrace it.

Tony Hawk talks about the pressures of skateboarding in the 80s

During the 80 and 90s, Hawk opened up to the pressures he faced back then. Looking at the current situation, he is happy that skaters can embrace the sport without suffering from any mental struggles. Thus, he talked about the situation back then.

“You know, we were bullied. We were expected to perform at the top at the highest level. And no one really understood how to keep your mental health in check. And I feel like a lot of my peers suffered,” said Hawk.

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As years go by, people do not consider mental health struggles to be taboo these days. In a situation that was often frowned upon, people are more open to listening to these problems. Hawk talked about the support being given to each other and it is a great thing to look forward to.

“I feel like skateboarding itself can be so beneficial to your mental health because it’ll teach you so much about what you’re capable of and finding your own path. In terms of competition, that’s a whole other can of worms and all I can lend is my experience, but also to say, ‘Hey, embrace the support that they give now. Cause we had none.”

Great influential personalities

The current generations have seen bold athletes coming to the forefront. Tennis superstar Naomi Osaka withdrew from the French Open after not being able to handle scrutiny which affected her mental health. The iconic Simone Biles decided to not compete in the gymnastics events at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Focusing on her mental health was key for Biles as she did not take part. After that, she returned to win the bronze medal, a victory for the ages.

To sum up, all these personates have paved the way for younger generations to take bold steps, moving forward. Being able to enjoy what you do is something to cherish for. However, these athletes showed how it is okay to not compete if you lack focus.

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