This paper is going to evaluate the life of Ricky Williams. In detail, this paper is going to discuss his personal information from childhood to NFL superstar. Along his life journey, we will dissect his many on the field achievements while battling his personal demons off the field, drug abuse and mental health issues.
Personal Information and Biography.
Errick Lynne “Ricky” Williams Jr. was born on May 21, 1977 in San Diego, California. Recognized as Ricky Williams, Ricky is a retired NFL running back who played 12 seasons with the New Orleans Saints, Miami Dolphins, and Baltimore Ravens. He is known best for his success in college football at the University of Texas and his ups and downs in the NFL. During his NFL career, some would say
…show more content…
He violated the NFL’s substance abuse policy four times and faced multiple suspensions because of it. (Williams) He tested positive for marijuana three different times and no one knew what was going on his head. Ricky was often considered an outcast in the NFL and treated differently by the media. He conducted interviews with his helmet on to eliminate eye contact with reporters and fans. (Anderson) He had trouble interacting with reporters, fans, and even his own family. He never wanted to leave his house whether it was for grocery shopping or traveling to practice. Ricky knew he had a problem, but thought it wasn’t normal to discuss his feelings and isolated himself from family and friends. He went into deep depression and didn’t know what to do. At first, Ricky believed he was just shy, but then was urged by a friend to seek help. Williams went to a therapist and soon knew that he had a mental disorder. The therapist stated “When I first met Williams, he could hardly look me in the eye. Like most people with this condition, Williams thought he was just shy or strange, but it was clear to me that his anxiety was debilitating, which is very different than shyness.” (Anderson) The therapist diagnosed Ricky with Social Anxiety Disorder (S.A.D.) The definition of Social Anxiety Disorder is the fear of negative evaluation during social interactions.(Sibley 141) More than 15 million Americans suffer from S.A.D. and more than one-third of people with this disorder report symptoms for 10 or more years before seeking help. (Anderson) Many of Williams symptoms and signs pointed towards this disorder being the problem for his everyday