Overcoming Childhood Trauma: Insights from Former NFL Star Reggie Walker
Join former NFL athlete Reggie Walker on episode 230 of The Verywell Mind Podcast as he reveals powerful methods for healing childhood trauma and embracing mental wellness.
CloseAmy Morin, LCSW, is a renowned psychotherapist and bestselling author whose acclaimed books, including "13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do," have been translated into over 40 languages worldwide. Her TEDx presentation, "The Secret of Becoming Mentally Strong," ranks among the most widely viewed talks ever.
On The Verywell Mind Podcast, Amy Morin, LCSW, engages with authors, experts, entrepreneurs, athletes, musicians, and inspiring figures to explore the mental strategies that empower them to excel in life.
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Introducing Reggie Walker
Reggie Walker dedicated seven seasons to the NFL, competing for the Cardinals, Chargers, and Broncos, before choosing to step away from professional football.
During his childhood, Reggie endured sexual, emotional, and physical abuse—traumas he concealed for many years. Football became a socially accepted outlet for his anger, allowing him to express aggression on the field.
Seeking healing, Reggie turned to therapy but found weekly sessions insufficient, prompting him to enter a 30-day inpatient treatment program to address his trauma deeply.
Today, Reggie is pursuing a counseling degree to support others on their healing journeys. He also founded a mental health program tailored for athletes and authored "The Game Within the Game."
Reggie Walker’s Journey to Mental Resilience
Recognizing his struggles, Reggie courageously sought professional help. When conventional therapy fell short, he bravely committed to residential treatment, drawing strength from a friend who had undergone the same experience.
Now revitalized, Reggie dedicates himself to assisting others, demonstrating that even those with outward success and toughness can face significant mental health battles.
Highlights of the Episode
- Why Reggie believed joining the NFL would bring lasting happiness
- Insights he gained about wealth, fame, and confronting past trauma
- The catalyst that led him to start therapy
- How he realized therapy alone wasn’t sufficient
- The process of finding the courage for residential treatment
- Reasons for returning to the treatment center for an additional 30 days
- Techniques Reggie acquired to maintain mental wellness
- The healing power of sharing his personal story
- Daily habits that support his ongoing mental health
Strategies for Healing Trauma
Understanding Mental Health and Building Strength
Success in external achievements doesn’t guarantee emotional well-being.
Like Reggie, many appear fine outwardly while battling hidden inner struggles.
He embraced that seeking help is a true mark of strength, not weakness, and learned foundational skills essential for improving his emotional health.
Words of Wisdom from Reggie
Reggie Walker
Your mental health holds equal importance to your physical health and requires consistent care.
— Reggie Walker- "Facing the underlying trauma was terrifying because it was something I had avoided my entire life."
- "I strive to be authentically myself every day, a journey made possible through my time in treatment."
- "My greatest achievement is being present for my children, especially after a time when I couldn't even be there for myself."
Does Time Really Heal All Wounds? Exploring the Truth
About The Podcast
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Editor’s Note: This transcript has not undergone our usual editorial review and may contain errors. Thank you for understanding.
For media or speaking requests, contact Amy here.
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Links and Resources
- Explore Reggie’s website: TheGameWithintheGame.com
- Follow Reggie on Instagram: @RWalk56
- Watch Reggie’s TEDx Talk: A Reflection on Part of My Life
If you found this episode valuable, check out these related discussions:
- Healing Childhood Wounds with Actress Chrissy Metz
- Recovering from Trauma with Therapist Kati Morton
- Unpacking Emotional Baggage with Radio Host Charlamagne Tha God
Understanding Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG)
- The Verywell Mind Podcast
- Self-Improvement
By Amy Morin, LCSW
Amy Morin is a psychotherapist and international bestselling author whose impactful works, including "13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do," have reached readers in over 40 languages. Her TEDx talk, "The Secret of Becoming Mentally Strong," remains one of the most popular presentations globally.
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