by Susan Resko, The Balanced Mind Foundation Executive Director

Championship L.A. Laker and former All-Star basketball player Ron Artest sank a three point shot on behalf of children’s mental health last month.  Artest went to Capitol Hill to speak to a panel of mental health advocates regarding the Mental Health in Schools Act. The legislation would allocate federal funding for mental health services in schools.

“I wanted to let the kids out there know its OK,” said Artest.

This is not the first time Artest has supported children’s mental health. He has stated that he is giving away a portion of his $7 million salary to help people with mental illness.  He auctioned his NBA Championship ring for over $500K for Xcel University, which works with high-risk youth on mental health issues.

Artest has had his own mental health challenges. While with the Indiana Pacers, he helped start a rowdy brawl between players and fans. He was suspended for the rest of the season and lost almost $5 million in salary. Subsequently, Artest started receiving treatment for his mental health issues. In his championship victory post-game interview last June, Artest thanked his psychiatrist for his help.

Ron Artest is a champion, not just on the court, but off. He is using his celebrity in a positive way to help kids who face the similar challenges. He is helping to remove the stigma of mental health issues and acts as an inspiration for others.  

As the Executive Director of The Balanced Mind Foundation and as a mother raising a child with a mood disorder, I applaud Mr. Artest for his courage and conviction. I encourage you to share these stories with your own children. Let them know that they have a champion in their court. The more we talk openly about mental illness, the more understanding our children will receive.