To launch Mental Health Awareness Month, Steamboat Springs High School had the privilege of hosting Brandon Saho, a former sports reporter, mental health advocate, and founder of “The Mental Game”, for a deeply impactful event.

His presentation highlighted the importance of fostering open conversations about mental health and well-being.

Saho’s story is one of resilience, vulnerability, and a profound sense of purpose. Known for his career in television covering major sports events, he walked away from that spotlight to step into another that he created after confronting his own mental health struggles.

In front of a packed gym, Brandon shared about his battle with depression and suicidal thoughts that he had hidden for years.

“I thought I was alone and no one else felt like me until I got to that rock bottom moment three years ago where I didn’t want to live anymore. I finally had to ask for help. I had no other options, or else I wouldn’t be alive today,” Saho shared.

It was from this experience that his podcast, “The Mental Game”, was created. Saho uses his platform to interview athletes, musicians, and entertainers about their personal health journeys, and his mission is to break the stigma, create a safe space for honest conversations, and ultimately save lives.

“The podcast has turned into something really, really beautiful,” he said. “It has been the best thing that has happened to me. It is my true purpose. I love it”.

Brandon described how hosting “The Mental Game” has helped him in his healing process.

“It helps me just like therapy. Whether I am talking to a guest on the podcast or speaking to students, like those at Steamboat Springs, hearing their stories motivates me. It is part of my journey too”.

 When it comes to selecting guests, Brandon looks for authenticity.

“I try to find stories we can all relate to. A lot of the time, it is the first time these guests have ever shared their mental health struggles publicly. That means we’ve created a safe space”. 

One of the most memorable episodes featured actor Terry Crews, who opened up about suicidal thoughts for the first time on Brandon’s podcast.

“For him to trust me with something so personal, meant the world to me. It is what this is about, creating those connections”.

Saho acknowledged the challenge of sharing his own story so publicly but emphasized that vulnerability is key.

“It was weird at first, having my whole story on the internet but I realized that the more vulnerable I am, the more people I can help”.

When reflecting on his past, Saho wishes that mental health was discussed more openly when he was younger.

“I hid this for 15 years from my parents and my friends. I grew up in a culture that said, ‘rub dirt on it, toughen up, don’t cry’ but that is wrong. Vulnerability is strength. If I’d spoken up sooner, maybe I could have gotten help sooner”.

To today’s students, parents, and educators, he offers a simple yet urgent message:

“Talk. Speak up. Have those conversations with your kids, your coworkers, your classmates. The sooner we talk, the sooner we can help each other and save lives”.

If there’s one takeaway from his visit, Brandon says it’s this:

“Do something and remember that feelings are temporary. You have to take action and ask for help. Nothing is the end of the world. You can be happy again. I’m living proof”.

Brandon closed his visit with high praise for the Steamboat Springs community:

“Steamboat Springs is one of my favorite high schools I have ever been to. The students, staff, and entire community were so kind and grateful. It’s experiences like this that remind me why I started “The Mental Game”. I can’t wait to come back”.

Given the sensitive nature of the topics discussed of depression, suicide, substance use, anxiety, and more, mental health resources were made available following the event. The Steamboat Springs School District and community partners ensured that anyone in need of help had access to support.

Brandon’s courage and commitment to mental health advocacy left a lasting impression on Steamboat Springs High School with his powerful message that no one is alone and that asking for help is not a weakness but rather the beginning of healing.

To learn more and listen to “The Mental Game”, visit TheMental.game