Skylar Diggins-Smith Opens Up About Anxiety and New Team
- Skylar Diggins-Smith shares struggles with anxiety before joining a new team in the WNBA.
- The basketball star expressed concerns about fitting in with her new teammates after focusing on motherhood for nearly two years.
- Diggins-Smith's story sheds light on mental health challenges faced by athletes transitioning back to professional sports.
In a candid discussion on ESPN's "WNBA Off Day," Skylar Diggins-Smith opened up about her struggles with depression and mental health, revealing the challenges she faced in seeking help. She acknowledged that her journey back to peak performance after a 21-month hiatus as a stay-at-home mom would take time, emphasizing the need for patience and understanding from her coach and the organization. "She's not going to come overnight and be who she was 20 months ago," said her coach, highlighting the importance of respecting her recovery process. Diggins-Smith, a three-time WNBA All-Star and key player in the Phoenix Mercury's 2021 Finals run, expressed her frustrations with the Mercury, claiming they restricted her access to team resources during her leave. This experience has contributed to her anxiety, which she only recognized after seeking professional help. As she transitions to her new role with the Seattle Storm, she is focused on adapting to the environment and contributing positively to her new team. When addressing the media for the first time as a Storm player, Diggins-Smith emphasized her commitment to being present and fully engaged in her new role. "Just really focused on being here where I’m planted," she stated, indicating her determination to channel her energy into her performance. In a lighter moment, teammate Megan Rapinoe commented on Caitlin's enthusiastic presence during games, noting her ability to energize the crowd, further illustrating the supportive atmosphere within the Storm.