Royce White: Releases Statement - Wants Private Bus At Times

[hipballinjigga]

First he released a statement on illness


Earlier Wednesday, White released a statement that detailed his refusal to join the team until a plan to address his "long-term health" was in place.

"There are often negative consequences to mental illness when not given the proper support," said White, according to a statement released through his publicist, California-based China Myers. "Often, those consequences are more severe for the surrounding people than the sufferer him/herself. I am not willing to allow those consequences to befall on myself or others close to me.

"It causes me anxiety to know that serious consequences could happen if I do not express what I deal with, or if I am not truthful enough to ask for what I need to be healthy. For me, hiding is no longer a healthy option in treating my anxiety or OCD, so I have asked for some help from the organization to ensure long-term health for myself.

"It has been determined that without a specific plan in place, the current workplace is not healthy for me. I feel that it is essential to formulate the right plan for a better chance of execution, despite other timelines or agendas. The most important agenda to me is a plan that is healthy. Therefore, a plan has been requested that will support a healthy work environment. In addition to this, it has been requested that the standard requirements for players in regards to this plan be voided because it is not a standard situation.

"It is regrettable that I cannot be currently present, but long-term health obviously should be the most important thing. I will continue to champion the cause for mental illness being met with understanding; if not, the ramifications are dangerous.

"Mental illness is a very individual-based disorder -- very unique for each person. So for those who come forward and ask for help, a very unique support plan should be the solution, given the nature of mental illness.

Then an ESPN story with more:

http://espn.go.com/nba/story/_/id/8459655/royce-white-absent-houston-rockets-cites-mental-health

Highlight from that article:


Before he's willing to start training camp, Houston Rockets rookie Royce White wants the team's permission to travel to some games by private bus, the former Iowa State star told ESPN.com on Wednesday night.

White's fear of flying, he said, magnifies his anxiety disorder. So he's asked the Rockets to let him use a bus for some of the team's extensive road trips. White said he's willing to purchase the bus and assume liability.

[CavaliersFTW]

First he released a statement on illness



Then an ESPN story with more:

http://espn.go.com/nba/story/_/id/8459655/royce-white-absent-houston-rockets-cites-mental-health

Highlight from that article:
I say do whatever it takes to let the man play esp since he's willing to front the money for some of his needs. His openness about his disorder could help raise mental health disorder awareness for NBA players and fans alike

[LosBulls]

He needs to smoke some weed before every flight. I bet it would solve his problem.

Petition for the NBA to legalize weed for him plz.

[Phenith]

Smart move by White to try and secure his long term mental health before just jumping in there and playing and hope all goes well.

[fatboy11]

Guy's a disaster.

[LosBulls]

Guy's a disaster.
Actually its the opposite. Its better for him to come out and say it and to actually look for help instead of having a guy play through with it and then suddenly exploding.

[All Net]

Maybe basketball isn't the ideal career for him....must be tough but still he's going to struggle if this is the case.

[kennethgriffin]

the guy didnt report to rockets training camp on time because he is afraid of flying


how did this guy even get drafted? he doesnt belong in the nba

[KB2009Champ]

Maybe basketball isn't the ideal career for him....must be tough but still he's going to struggle if this is the case.

Not trying to be mean but to be an NBA player you have to be able to fly. Or just play home games.

If the Rockets drafted him that high they need to man up and support him.

Everyone knew that this was going to be an issue.

[niko]

Guy's a disaster.
I agree. I have no problem with him needing help and telling you. But it feels like his problems were understated, and i have more problem (this will sound strange) with him asking for the private bus as opposed to him needing to miss time until he gets his mind working right. That to me feels like he wants special treatment, which is negative.

Wasn't a huge risk where you drafted him but the signs seem bad.

[bagelred]

This will sound a little silly, but if Royce wants to help his mental health....he should ask for a trade to an Eastern Conference team, preferably Atlantic Division team...Knicks/Nets/Sixers/Celtics.....

Why? Because flight times are much shorter or he can bus it easily to those places. If he was on the Nets, for example, no traveling to Knicks, only 2 hour drive 76ers, 4 hours to DC, 4 hours to Boston....plus short flights to MidWest teams......with only one West Coast road trip to make........

Hey, if his mental health is that important, make it easier on himself.........

[CavaliersFTW]

the guy didnt report to rockets training camp on time because he is afraid of flying


how did this guy even get drafted? he doesnt belong in the nba
If you watch his ability to play you'd know he does belong in the NBA. But his life off the court requires some special needs. If the NBA is able to work with him (and I really hope they are) than he should be able to play. I'm pulling for the guy, mental health disorders are a challenge and people who have them could use potential role models and success stories like this guy could potentially provide. He is open about his problems, he knows what his needs are - as long as they are addressed he should be able to play.

[fatboy11]

Actually its the opposite. Its better for him to come out and say it and to actually look for help instead of having a guy play through with it and then suddenly exploding.

Why isn't he in training camp right now?

Answer: Because he's a disaster.

Look, I hate it for the guy, but the fact remains that he is not off to a good start as an NBA player. It's only going to worse for him. I don't think he will make it. I hope he does because he's a HUGE part of the Rockets' future, but this is not encouraging.

[Force]

the guy didnt report to rockets training camp on time because he is afraid of flying


how did this guy even get drafted? he doesnt belong in the nba

Have you even watched him play? He is incredibly talented. he went 16th in the draft after a big slip due to the disorder. He was easily a top 5 talent in the draft.

[swi7ch]

Just give him some liquor hours before taking the plane... problem solved.

[fatboy11]

Just give him some liquor hours before taking the plane... problem solved.

Great.

We'll trade anxiety for alcoholism.

Disaster.

[senelcoolidge]

This keeps up he will be out of the league. Probably play for the local YMCA team that way he doesn't have to travel.

[Mr Exlax]

He didn't say he wouldn't play ever folks. I mean fu*k let's just say he's injured. He's working on a plan to get himself healthy. The Rockets knew he did not fly before they drafted him. Shit so he misses training camp. Hell let's say he misses all season. It's not the end of his career. If he gets it all together then the Rockets come away looking like crooks because they got so much talent that late in the draft.

[CavaliersFTW]

Great.

We'll trade anxiety for alcoholism.

Disaster.
lol @ these weed and liquor "solutions" being presented by ISH's mental health disorder experts. I'm sure weed and liquor would solve all of Royce's problems :facepalm :oldlol:

[DuMa]

at least he is trying to take steps to solve his problems. much more than i can say for you twats

[bagelred]

Royce White's new nickname is B.A.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=3zgQGfBOnh8#t=0m16s

[HardwoodLegend]

They need to just have him sedated before flights.

Dat ether.

http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m0wf720EL91qlqqhoo1_500.jpg

[IGotACoolStory]

Just tranq that guy and drag him on an empty plane. Fly the plane until he wakes up and let him go crazy until he can deal with his problem.

What is that called? Flooding or something. I didn't pay attention in my Psy class. Seems fair though. :D

[brantonli]

For people suggesting tranq or weed or whatever, you do realise that coaches give out important infos and videos to watch while on flights? They don't waste all that time on an airplane watching The Avengers, you don't always get to sleep, you have to study up the next opponent when on the flight.

[El Kabong]

Just give him some liquor hours before taking the plane... problem solved.
I used to work with a guy like that. We'd be in some pissant town with a 9am flight and we'd be searching high and low all morning for some place that'd sell us booze so he could get loaded up before the flight.

[taucesays]

Chartered jet is way safer than a bus. This guy is a basketcase.

[millwad]

If you watch his ability to play you'd know he does belong in the NBA. But his life off the court requires some special needs. If the NBA is able to work with him (and I really hope they are) than he should be able to play. I'm pulling for the guy, mental health disorders are a challenge and people who have them could use potential role models and success stories like this guy could potentially provide. He is open about his problems, he knows what his needs are - as long as they are addressed he should be able to play.

Repped, couldn't agree more.

I find it bothering though that some fans are already giving him a hard time, saw some pretty disgusting comments on Twitter etc..

It's easy for us to judge the poor guy when we sit at home as fans..

He's only 21 years old and I can't imagine how much extreme pressure the guy has on his shoulders. I have never had any mental issues like that and I only played for the youth national team and in the swedish basketball league and I still remember how nervous I was before games and how some playoff games were messing me up completely even before the games started. And again, I have no mental issues and here we have this guy with a pretty severe anxiety disorder who plays in the NBA where his every move is going to be watched by million of fans..

I hope the Rockets try their best to help him out.

[ripthekik]

For people suggesting tranq or weed or whatever, you do realise that coaches give out important infos and videos to watch while on flights? They don't waste all that time on an airplane watching The Avengers, you don't always get to sleep, you have to study up the next opponent when on the flight.
plenty of nba players play cards on the flight :lol
tons of stories about this, read up on any player's biography

[daily]

Problem solved

http://humanrelief.net/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/bus17.jpg

All kidding aside I give this kid mad props for giving the NBA a go. Hope he pulls it off. Rockets need some recognition too for taking this gamble

[el gringos]

Just give him some liquor hours before taking the plane... problem solved.
Liquor always helps people w mental problems. Good idea

[fatboy11]

He didn't say he wouldn't play ever folks. I mean fu*k let's just say he's injured. He's working on a plan to get himself healthy. The Rockets knew he did not fly before they drafted him. Shit so he misses training camp. Hell let's say he misses all season. It's not the end of his career. If he gets it all together then the Rockets come away looking like crooks because they got so much talent that late in the draft.

Not sure if serious.

Missing training camp would be a big deal. Missing the entire season would be a massive deal.

The season hasn't even started yet and this dude is already having to miss time because of this disorder. I'm not trying to be unsympathetic, but honestly, he's not off to good start. We can only hope he'll "get used to it" or something.

[Whoah10115]

Wow, some people here are ridiculous.



This will sound a little silly, but if Royce wants to help his mental health....he should ask for a trade to an Eastern Conference team, preferably Atlantic Division team...Knicks/Nets/Sixers/Celtics.....

Why? Because flight times are much shorter or he can bus it easily to those places. If he was on the Nets, for example, no traveling to Knicks, only 2 hour drive 76ers, 4 hours to DC, 4 hours to Boston....plus short flights to MidWest teams......with only one West Coast road trip to make........

Hey, if his mental health is that important, make it easier on himself.........



I actually think this makes some sense. I don't know how bad the schedule will be for the Rockets (in the future, maybe the NBA takes tis into consideration) but this makese sense.


And really, shame on his agent for not spreading the word. Common sense. Maybe even try to get him close to home. He was probably too scared of having the guy's stock and money drop. Should have been more concerned with the player and his needs.

[2LeTTeRS]

I have no problem with him wanting to get these accommodations, but why now? Why didn't he speak with the team when he first signed his contract? Sounds to me like he didn't want to go to training camp and he's using this as an excuse.

[Heavincent]

If you watch his ability to play you'd know he does belong in the NBA. But his life off the court requires some special needs. If the NBA is able to work with him (and I really hope they are) than he should be able to play. I'm pulling for the guy, mental health disorders are a challenge and people who have them could use potential role models and success stories like this guy could potentially provide. He is open about his problems, he knows what his needs are - as long as they are addressed he should be able to play.

I agree. Hope this guy succeeds.

[KyrieTheFuture]

There's no viable way for him to be an NBA player if he has to take a damn bus everywhere.

[Yao Ming's Foot]

Morey with another bust

#mostoverratedGMintheleague

[Nash]

I remember soccer team Arsenal had similar problems with their star Dennis Bergkamp.

[C-Webb4]

lol @ the people in this thread saying smoke weed and drink prior to or during a flight and problem solved. As someone who has what he has, I can tell you that smoking weed and drinking don't help. Especially weed. Weed is an anxiety sufferers worst nightmare. Drinking I guess when you drink enough does calm you down at least while under the influence but it's the same effect as taking a xanax or something. It'll calm you down for the moment but make you feel worse when it wears off.

[ZeN]

I have no problem with him wanting to get these accommodations, but why now? Why didn't he speak with the team when he first signed his contract? Sounds to me like he didn't want to go to training camp and he's using this as an excuse.
This is a great point.. If his concern is having proper accommodation because of health issues, he should have addressed this ASAP.. The time he chose and the way it's occurring, either some details are left out or there's ulterior motives.

[Mr Exlax]

Not sure if serious.

Missing training camp would be a big deal. Missing the entire season would be a massive deal.

The season hasn't even started yet and this dude is already having to miss time because of this disorder. I'm not trying to be unsympathetic, but honestly, he's not off to good start. We can only hope he'll "get used to it" or something.

I'm dead serious.

I mean bro this is just his first season. We aren't going all in on this kid in his first season. He's not the savior of the franchise right now.

I say let him take some time and get right. He's not being a distraction. He's not blowing up on teammates or raping bitches or getting his father killed by not paying gambling debts. He's simply missing training camp to deal with his mental health instead of waiting until something bad happens.

[Mr Exlax]

This is a great point.. If his concern is having proper accommodation because of health issues, he should have addressed this ASAP.. The time he chose and the way it's occurring, either some details are left out or there's ulterior motives.

Everybody knew about his disorder before this. The only reason he fell so low in the draft was because of this. The Rockets were the only ones willing to take a chance on him. I can't say if it's good or bad because his career hasn't really even started.

[fatboy11]

I'm dead serious.

I mean bro this is just his first season. We aren't going all in on this kid in his first season. He's not the savior of the franchise right now.

I say let him take some time and get right. He's not being a distraction. He's not blowing up on teammates or raping bitches or getting his father killed by not paying gambling debts. He's simply missing training camp to deal with his mental health instead of waiting until something bad happens.

Taking a year off from the lifestyle and routine that would be required of him is not going to help him at all. He has to know what he's up against, and he can't do that if he's holed up at home away from everything. He needs to be in training camp right now. He needs to be with the team. He needs to be meeting this head on. He can get on Twitter all he wants and talk about how proactive he's being, but the fact remains that he's nowhere to be found right now. If that's proactive, I'd hate to see reactive.

[ZeN]

Everybody knew about his disorder before this. The only reason he fell so low in the draft was because of this. The Rockets were the only ones willing to take a chance on him. I can't say if it's good or bad because his career hasn't really even started.


Well im really not disputing the mental health claims and whether its fair or whatever.

Im simply stating that if everyone was aware as you say, including the Rockets.. and if White knew that he would need to make these adjustments.. Why hasnt it all been taken care of already? Why wait until training camp to seek these personal adjustments? Seems a bit suspect or maybe its just irresponsible behavior that is typical of people with mental issues. Either way its not good to have someone unstable being impulsive with their demands.

He knows he has these issues so its his responsibility to seek treatment and try to learn which adjustment methods need to be implemented. There are various ways to help curve his issues, he just has to put the effort and desire to actually make it happen. If he doesnt get motivated and try to progressively change.. he will either be riding buses his whole career while making less money than his potential or the teams that will be willing to deal with him, will start diminishing.

There is therapy for what he has.. but it takes a lot of hard work and a willing spirit. He has to suffer before he succeeds. Which is why hes making all these adjustments... hes not ready to face the facts yet.

[C-Webb4]

The one thing about it is, it's actually his illness speaking for him when he says that he needs the bus in order for him to be healthy. It couldn't be further from the truth, but it's our tendency. Fear never happens in the present. It only happens when either anticipating some future disaster, or when remembering something that has happened in the past. In his case, it was anticipation. He initially said, "ok this is gonna be tough, but I can handle it." And then as the schedule came out he said "oh no, I have to be on a plane X____ amount of times, what if I can't handle it? What if I freak out on the plane? What if the schedule is too demanding for me? What if I can't handle playing in the NBA?"

Now, i'm not saying all of that justifies being back and forth in regards to the business aspect of it which is the NBA, i'm rather just explaining to you the irrational thoughts that go through the mind of someone with this problem and how real those thoughts and worries feel.

[Smoke117]

I have anxiety disorders and OCD and it can be hell. He probably has social anxiety too which makes him anxious around people. I would think he is on some kind of ssri or tricyclic antidepressant (the older ones before they came out with ssri's) that lean towards helping anxiety and ocd more so than depression. He could be on luvox, celexa, lexapro or what I was just put on was Clomipramine which is one of the older TCA's, but it is supposed to work better than the newer drugs for OCD and anxiety. I would think he would be on some kind of benzo too when he's really stressed out. I'm prescribed 60 2mg klonopin to take twice a day as needed.

People that say just smoke weed are stupid. I've smoked a lot of bud in my day, but when you have anxiety disorders the marijuana can only make it worse. You've heard of regular people who get paranoid or really anxious when they smoke. I've had that happen to me because of my anxiety disorders and it's only worse. Usually if i'm smoking in an comfortable situation it doesn't affect me that way but if I'm already anxious and I smoked it would just make it worse and make me extremely paranoid.

Drinking would definitely help as you just don't care when intoxicated, but that is why so many people with these disorders become alcoholics. I've had my run in with alcoholism and am only getting out of it the last 6 months. Drinking is the worst possible self medication he could choose.

[Haymaker]

lol @ the people in this thread saying smoke weed and drink prior to or during a flight and problem solved. As someone who has what he has, I can tell you that smoking weed and drinking don't help. Especially weed. Weed is an anxiety sufferers worst nightmare. Drinking I guess when you drink enough does calm you down at least while under the influence but it's the same effect as taking a xanax or something. It'll calm you down for the moment but make you feel worse when it wears off.

I suffer from anxiety too and weed used to calm me down. Cocaine is what you should not take.

[C-Webb4]

I suffer from anxiety too and weed used to calm me down. Cocaine is what you should not take.
I guess it's different for different people, but at least in severe cases weed causes a lot of the symptoms that anxiety causes. Makes you paranoid and overthink about what's going on around you as well as inside your own body. But I guess no two people are alike so 2 people with the same overall problem could have the same drug but have different responses/reactions to it.

edit: but I actually know people who developed panic disorder and general anxiety disorder FROM smoking weed.

[chips93]

I agree. I have no problem with him needing help and telling you. But it feels like his problems were understated, and i have more problem (this will sound strange) with him asking for the private bus as opposed to him needing to miss time until he gets his mind working right. That to me feels like he wants special treatment, which is negative.

Wasn't a huge risk where you drafted him but the signs seem bad.


understated? i think hes been very open regarding his issues. hes done several pretty high profile interviews, and has revealed a lot of very personal things, that im sure many, if in his position, would have kept to themselves.

realistically, nobody is in position to judge him, since none of us know what hes truly going through

[Haymaker]

I guess it's different for different people, but at least in severe cases weed causes a lot of the symptoms that anxiety causes. Makes you paranoid and overthink about what's going on around you as well as inside your own body. But I guess no two people are alike so 2 people with the same overall problem could have the same drug but have different responses/reactions to it.

edit: but I actually know people who developed panic disorder and general anxiety disorder FROM smoking weed.

That being said, you're spot on with the observation that it was his anxiety asking for a bus. Seems like he needs CBT (Cognitive behavioral therapy) along with meditation to learn to separate himself from his anxiety thoughts. Medication is just a patch, therapy is more important. I took CBT and it took me out of the hole.

[Owl]

lol @ these weed and liquor "solutions" being presented by ISH's mental health disorder experts. I'm sure weed and liquor would solve all of Royce's problems :facepalm :oldlol:
Well, I'm sure they couldn't hurt psychologically speaking ...... oh, wait.


I remember soccer team Arsenal had similar problems with their star Dennis Bergkamp.
True but in sport where the vast majority of his games took place within one country (for most of his career a small country) where teams are transported by road, and with a less hectic schedule.


I have no problem with him wanting to get these accommodations, but why now? Why didn't he speak with the team when he first signed his contract? Sounds to me like he didn't want to go to training camp and he's using this as an excuse.
Bolded makes sense. It's not an excuse but this is coming out late in the day (not his anxiety and mental health issues, but specifics about not attending camp, intent to use buses). It does make worry whether there's a risk of him being found in breach of his contract. Obviously Houston don't want to cause trouble at this point, but if White isn't attending camp and especially if has trouble getting to games (and we don't know the details at this time so some people are dismissing him prematurely) but if he doesn't do what he's obliged to then ... well I'd be concerned for him.


Wow, some people here are ridiculous.






I actually think this makes some sense. I don't know how bad the schedule will be for the Rockets (in the future, maybe the NBA takes tis into consideration) but this makese sense.


And really, shame on his agent for not spreading the word. Common sense. Maybe even try to get him close to home. He was probably too scared of having the guy's stock and money drop. Should have been more concerned with the player and his needs.
Not the agent's fault. At all. White interviewed with teams. White is the one who should have communicated any wishes he had to teams directly or to and through his agent. The agent is his employee and will have done what was asked of him. Only if agents hushed things up, gagged him from speaking freely and have placed him in a contract he'll have to end up breaking will/would it be the case that they were negligent. There's a lot of ifs there.


Anyway I wish him well with his NBA career and more importantly with his mental health issues.

[NoGunzJustSkillz]

Maybe basketball isn't the ideal career for him....must be tough but still he's going to struggle if this is the case.
Right on the money.:applause:

[C-Webb4]

That being said, you're spot on with the observation that it was his anxiety asking for a bus. Seems like he needs CBT (Cognitive behavioral therapy) along with meditation to learn to separate himself from his anxiety thoughts. Medication is just a patch, therapy is more important. I took CBT and it took me out of the hole.
Agreed, i'm in process of CBT now so that's why I was saying I get what he's saying. At it's worst, my family would be like "hey come and do this, try this, do this or that it will help" and i'd be like "nah i'm not in a position to be able to handle that right now. I'll do it when I get better." But the irony is that it's the DOING that makes you better. One of the first things my own CBT therapist told me was that you have to die before you truly live. You have to do all those things that terrify you over and over (as you know) and it may suck at first while you're doing it until your brain gets retrained and you learn that it's not really something to be feared but rather understood. So taking time to build up to being able to handle going on the plane will not foster improvement in his ability to handle going on the plane. It rather reinforces his problem and is avoidance behavior. It's not like people think where you can actually beat your fears without facing them head on.

[DuMa]

http://www.myfoxhouston.com/story/19737112/2012/10/04/royce-white-says-agreement-in-place

[bokes15]

http://www.myfoxhouston.com/story/19737112/2012/10/04/royce-white-says-agreement-in-place

White said it is fault he did not come to the Rockets sooner about getting his issues with travel resolved, but he pointed out his illness had a lot do with that as well.

"I will take full responsibility for that," White said. "You have to understand that with the disorder I have specifically, it was very worrisome, stressful for me to even make a decision to be able to ask for what I need.

"There was a certain amount of fear that went into me even stepping up and asking for what I need because, let's face it, the ramifications could have been a number of things, and one of those could have been me not being in the league come two years from now or even now.

"That was very scary for me personally. It came to a point where I really had to decide 'okay either you're going to step up and ask for what you need or deal with the consequences that may come if this isn't supported,' and I wasn't willing to do that in the end. So I felt the need to step up and ask.

White said he is looking forward to rejoining the Rockets.


Read more: http://www.myfoxhouston.com/story/19737112/2012/10/04/royce-white-says-agreement-in-place#ixzz28N8DMZS9

[hipballinjigga]

I have anxiety disorders and OCD and it can be hell. He probably has social anxiety too which makes him anxious around people. I would think he is on some kind of ssri or tricyclic antidepressant (the older ones before they came out with ssri's) that lean towards helping anxiety and ocd more so than depression. He could be on luvox, celexa, lexapro or what I was just put on was Clomipramine which is one of the older TCA's, but it is supposed to work better than the newer drugs for OCD and anxiety. I would think he would be on some kind of benzo too when he's really stressed out. I'm prescribed 60 2mg klonopin to take twice a day as needed.

People that say just smoke weed are stupid. I've smoked a lot of bud in my day, but when you have anxiety disorders the marijuana can only make it worse. You've heard of regular people who get paranoid or really anxious when they smoke. I've had that happen to me because of my anxiety disorders and it's only worse. Usually if i'm smoking in an comfortable situation it doesn't affect me that way but if I'm already anxious and I smoked it would just make it worse and make me extremely paranoid.

Drinking would definitely help as you just don't care when intoxicated, but that is why so many people with these disorders become alcoholics. I've had my run in with alcoholism and am only getting out of it the last 6 months. Drinking is the worst possible self medication he could choose.


First, fantastic post that offers a true insight to what Royce might be going through. I didn't see that anyone else really applauded you for sharing your own issues so openly, so thank you for that.

In response to this post:


White said it is fault he did not come to the Rockets sooner about getting his issues with travel resolved, but he pointed out his illness had a lot do with that as well.

"I will take full responsibility for that," White said. "You have to understand that with the disorder I have specifically, it was very worrisome, stressful for me to even make a decision to be able to ask for what I need.

"There was a certain amount of fear that went into me even stepping up and asking for what I need because, let's face it, the ramifications could have been a number of things, and one of those could have been me not being in the league come two years from now or even now.

"That was very scary for me personally. It came to a point where I really had to decide 'okay either you're going to step up and ask for what you need or deal with the consequences that may come if this isn't supported,' and I wasn't willing to do that in the end. So I felt the need to step up and ask.

White said he is looking forward to rejoining the Rockets.


I think it is kind of poor he didn't say anything. All i got from this article is that he was afraid someone would not draft him if they knew what he needed. Well, i hate to admit, he probably would of not been drafted and it's unfair to the team to not have all the proper information first hand.

Basically, what I think he is doing is fighting for "employee rights" when he was not upfront at first. If the Rockets were not afraid of the public backlash, they are probably within their rights to rescind their contract to him.

What Royce is trying to do here is get WHAT HE WANTS, even though it is what he needs, without being up front. Using your illness as an excuse for not being up front is just a stupid cop out. If there is one thing that bothers me it is when people use their own issues as a reason to not do what everyone else is required to do.

I hope this situation does get solved soon. He is incredibly talented but i hope it is worth all of the headaches.

[C-Webb4]

First, fantastic post that offers a true insight to what Royce might be going through. I didn't see that anyone else really applauded you for sharing your own issues so openly, so thank you for that.

In response to this post:

I think it is kind of poor he didn't say anything. All i got from this article is that he was afraid someone would not draft him if they knew what he needed. Well, i hate to admit, he probably would of not been drafted and it's unfair to the team to not have all the proper information first hand.

Basically, what I think he is doing is fighting for "employee rights" when he was not upfront at first. If the Rockets were not afraid of the public backlash, they are probably within their rights to rescind their contract to him.

What Royce is trying to do here is get WHAT HE WANTS, even though it is what he needs, without being up front. Using your illness as an excuse for not being up front is just a stupid cop out. If there is one thing that bothers me it is when people use their own issues as a reason to not do what everyone else is required to do.

I hope this situation does get solved soon. He is incredibly talented but i hope it is worth all of the headaches.
Completely disagree. As said in that very article it's not at all convenient to take an 8 hour bus ride vs. a 2 hour flight, and his offer is to cover the cost of the bus at his own expense. I don't think it has anything to do with employee rights even though he has mentioned that. What you may not understand about anxiety is that it has the tendency to make you doubt yourself. When he saw the schedule come out, he panicked. He was worried about the travel responsibilities he had and wondered if he'd be able to manage it. It's his fault in the sense that he backtracked on previous word given and told them at the last minute but in another sense it's not his fault because that's what anxiety does to you.

[Darius]

I'm dead serious.

I mean bro this is just his first season. We aren't going all in on this kid in his first season. He's not the savior of the franchise right now.

I say let him take some time and get right. He's not being a distraction. He's not blowing up on teammates or raping bitches or getting his father killed by not paying gambling debts. He's simply missing training camp to deal with his mental health instead of waiting until something bad happens.

People with disorders of this magnitude don;t just "get their mind right". I don't think this is is something that goes away.

[G-train]

People with disorders of this magnitude don;t just "get their mind right". I don't think this is is something that goes away.

You do not have to live like that.
Proper counselling to correct root causes and changes to thought pattern and lifestyles will heal mental health.
This guy seems to have given up on that from my limited reading, and wants the world to revolve around his illness.
IMO that's a bad example for mental health sufferers.

[NoGunzJustSkillz]

shoulda made these demands before he signed his contract.

[Rowe]

You do not have to live like that.
Proper counselling to correct root causes and changes to thought pattern and lifestyles will heal mental health.
This guy seems to have given up on that from my limited reading, and wants the world to revolve around his illness.
IMO that's a bad example for mental health sufferers.

:biggums:

Please stop.

[C-Webb4]

Actually what NGJS is saying is kind of true even though it came across in a harsh way. I've looked up some info before on what he does to treat his and it's pretty much that he manages with a combination of prescription pills and talk therapy from a psychiatrist. I don't think he really believes that it can be cured by his interviews and what he says and how he acts. I think that he feels that at best he can contain it by limiting certain activities, avoiding certain things altogether, and popping a pill before flights and things like that. That's totally the wrong way to go about it and I hope he gets more educated on it and meets some of the right people. Because I have made tremendous strides, and only have been able to do so by challenging myself and stepping outside of my comfort zone to not avoid or put limits on what I can or cannot do.

[Skywalker]

I'm sure Hoiberg and McHale have open lines of communication with regards to Royce and will do everything possible to get him what he needs to be comfortable. The fact he's not in camp worries me.

[daily]

Royce White has positive meeting with Rockets

By Brett Hein on Oct 4, 8:03a
Houston Rockets rookie forward Royce White met with team officials on Wednesday night, which is reported to have gone "well," according to FOX 26 in Houston. White has been absent from training camp in a continued battle with his widely publicized anxiety issues.

The station's report also says that White is not set to join the Rockets' training camp, but will try to join the team at a later date.

White, the no. 16 overall pick of the 2012 draft, also released a statement through his publicist in which he says he has asked for help and will continue to champion understanding for mental illness:

"For me, hiding is no longer a healthy option in treating my anxiety or OCD, so I have asked for some help from the organization to ensure long-term health for myself ...

"It is regrettable that I cannot be currently present, but long term health obviously should be the most important thing. I will continue to champion the cause for mental illness being met with understanding; if not, the ramifications are dangerous."

A tweet from White even later in the night confirmed the report that the meeting went well:

There is nothing but very positive strides being taken right now between I and the @houstonrockets to support health. Thank You! #Rockets

— Royce White (@Highway_30) October 4, 2012

http://www.sbnation.com/nba/2012/10/4/3452798/royce-white-rockets-meeting

[The_Yearning]

First of all I don't even know who this dude is... secondly that means he isn't good enough to be making such demands for accommodations...

[RaininTwos]

They need to just have him sedated before flights.

Dat ether.

http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m0wf720EL91qlqqhoo1_500.jpg
:roll:

[lilbeastnani]

Royce White the basketball player is a beast. I've seen a lot of the dude in college and he's solid. Great rebounder, agile, has a good array of paint moves. I'm unsure how it affects him on the court but I think if he can manage to work through it, he may be a worthwile risk in the long run. Plus it's not like he's on a contending team right now anyways.

[G-train]

:biggums:

Please stop.

I'm correct.

:coleman:

[G-train]

Best cure for depression and anxiety is to spend some time in Africa at missions centre for a few weeks or months.
Then your mind grasps real problems to be sad about or worried about.
Sounds harsh but it actually works.

[daily]

Best cure for depression and anxiety is to spend some time in Africa at missions centre for a few weeks or months.
Then your mind grasps real problems to be sad about or worried about.
Sounds harsh but it actually works.:facepalm

[UtahJazzFan88]

Any college basketball/draft experts here, how much did his OCD/Anxiety issues hurt his draft stock compared to where he was picked at 16?

[fsvr54]

Best cure for depression and anxiety is to spend some time in Africa at missions centre for a few weeks or months.
Then your mind grasps real problems to be sad about or worried about.
Sounds harsh but it actually works.

Wrong, it makes you more depressed to live in such a world.

[SourPatchKids]

http://images.wikia.com/edfanon/images/7/79/Ed_Edd_N_Eddy_Monster_by_TheRealTDAGeena.gif

[SourPatchKids]

Health is the greatest gift, contentment the greatest wealth, faithfulness the best relationship
- Buddha

[lilbeastnani]

Any college basketball/draft experts here, how much did his OCD/Anxiety issues hurt his draft stock compared to where he was picked at 16?
First of all I don't think you could call anyone here an expert. But as someone who did follow his basketball career he was a definite top 10 perhaps even a top 5 prospect. People have compared him to a guy cut out of the mold of a Charles Barkley but taller and more properly filled out.

edit: in doing a quick google search I found that it seems he actually did ask teams about whether they would accomodate him or not with the whole bus thing prior to the draft. I'm unsure though of what exactly he told the rockets organization.


In sit-downs with White, however, NBA officials have warned that the pros will be less accommodating. The Heat told him that he wouldn't be allowed to drive even the four hours to Orlando. "It's understandable," White says. "But in my head, I'm going, You want me to drive. You're paying me millions of dollars to perform.... We're not all alike."

So that does makes sense to me why he would be emphasizing the disability part of it. For them to not even give him the option.

[andgar923]

I say do whatever it takes to let the man play esp since he's willing to front the money for some of his needs. His openness about his disorder could help raise mental health disorder awareness for NBA players and fans alike

I understand this point, but this isn't just an ordinary job.

If his mental disease is this serious, then he shouldn't be in the NBA. Imagine the trouble that he'll cause for his players, fans and organization?

I wish him the best, but this is a business at the end of the day, and he'll hurt it.

[blacknapalm]

he was upfront with his condition from the beginning so houston knew the risks involved. he was taken off many draft boards altogether because of it. who's to say he wasn't trying to work around the whole bus thing but realized he's not ready yet? some days are better than others and it's not something that gets put behind him overnight.

it's better he tells them now than have a panic attack at an airport and miss the game because of it, right? like someone said, it's plausible he freaked out after seeing the schedule. when it comes to these things, it's better to get it over with. otherwise, you just stew over it and let the anxiety fester and grow. the same would apply to media day. just hearing 'media day' would be enough to set someone struggling with anxiety on edge.

the only thing he can really do is keep going to therapy so that he can attack the problem head on and know what to do when he feels an anxiety attack coming on. once he gets over the initial fear, it becomes more and more approachable. for now, it's something both royce and houston have to work with together to see success...and they both knew this.

this is going to be a process but i'm pulling for him.

[DixieNourmous]

If i had depression, Million Dollar paychecks would make my depression go away instantly.

http://media.tumblr.com/tumblr_mbamb24HTF1rpx6m6.gif

[InspiredLebowski]

Just the amount of separation from his team and practices he'd have to miss makes it a nonstarter. There's like 4 cities a bus trip from Dallas makes any kind of sense for. What's he going to do when Houston's in LA then Portland the next night then Utah two days after that or something?

The dude went and hid in his coach's office at a year end awards banquet which is obviously full of nothing but people that adore the guy and he still couldn't face them. I hope he can get past it, but he's in the wrong career path.

[Droid101]

Xanax.

Next?

[IamSofaKing]

He needs to smoke some weed before every flight. I bet it would solve his problem.

Petition for the NBA to legalize weed for him plz.

I can tell you haven't smoked weed before..

You really think that'll calm him down? Weed makes you paranoid bro, try smoking weed before going on a rollercoaster and tell me if you suddenly grow a pair of baIIs

[poido123]

Not sure why Im doing this, but I guess this is to stand up for a guy who I know first hand what he's going through. In saying that, I dont have the pressure of playing in the NBA, but Im telling you for real, this guy is one brave Mofo for even attempting to take on a career in the spotlight like he is. I have Social Disorder, Post Trauma, anxiety, depression, panic attacks etc etc. To explain what its like to have it, is incredibly fustrating at times and you wonder what its like for people around you who dont have to live with so much fear everyday. People around you just ask, what is wrong with this guy, is he weird or something? He looks normal to me, and has no reason to be afraid, why is he scared?

Everyday life is a challenge, I am fearful of so many things, that I forget what its like to be free and have fun. I can for the most part do the normal things like play basketball with my mates, small normal things everyone else does etc and I do have moments where I come out of it, like I can deal with my close group of friends, or one on one interaction. I avoid potential moments of embarassment, like ill avoid group parties, or social events(unless i get drunk) and I sure as hell couldn't public speak, so most of my interaction is with one or 2 people at a time.

I have a girlfriend that encourages me, and tries to push me through some smaller fears, however I am afraid of marrying her or going to a BBQ with her family and friends for example, as I am susceptable to a panic attack. I feel helpless that I cant do that for her, but at the same time I do understand the world does not understand these type of things-except for others who have the same condition.

Going back to what Royce White is facing, I couldnt imagine ever facing what he's about to face. But I take my hat off to the guy for at least trying. Being in the spotlight and public speaking, which he will have to do. What Id suggest would be 1 guy in the Rockets team to take him under his wing, and make him real welcome and be by his side, to face people and whatever he will have to do. I used sport as a way of feeling accepted, so I was able to play without fear of outside influences, as I was good at it. Unfortunately, that only works in that area for me, so I guess on court he will be fine, its when he comes off the court that he will feel the pressure.

Good Luck to you Royce, Im a fan of yours already :applause:

[jbot]

Actually its the opposite. Its better for him to come out and say it and to actually look for help instead of having a guy play through with it and then suddenly exploding.
yeah but it looks like it might be a bit too much for a team to deal with. what about back to back games too far apart to take a bus? i really feel for the kid but it doesn't look good.

[poido123]

yeah but it looks like it might be a bit too much for a team to deal with. what about back to back games too far apart to take a bus? i really feel for the kid but it doesn't look good.

I think once he gets to know the other players, through playing games, practice etc he will be fine...I think what he is afraid of is the initial meeting part, and his teammates accepting him etc.

[ralph_i_el]

He needs to smoke some weed before every flight. I bet it would solve his problem.

Petition for the NBA to legalize weed for him plz.

if i'm not driving i get really car sick on any drive longer than 30 minutes unless i blaze up beforehand :lol

so thumbs up to that idea

[C-Webb4]

I wish that more people (who had this problem) understood that it is a behavioral disorder. It's not a "disease" as some people have described it as and it's very correctable. I'm living proof of that. Having said that, as others have said it takes major guts for a guy with this problem to choose a career like playing in the NBA. A career that involves frequent flights, a lot of media obligations, playing in front of thousands of fans, tremendous training schedule and pressures of winning, etc...I don't know whether he will succeed in doing all this but I do know I have an ultimate amount of respect for him for not giving up on his dream.

[niko]

The bus thing isn't a solution, it's a way to avoid facing the problem.

[Wavy Crockett]

How was he traveling far distances in college?

[blacknapalm]

The bus thing isn't a solution, it's a way to avoid facing the problem.

but he's still going to be flying to most games. he's just taking a bus in driveable situations. when someone is suffering from anxiety, you want to gradually expose them to their stressor/trigger, not immerse them with no escape.

i don't know if that will work but i can see how it's an early sensible plan. as he gets more used to flying, he should be able to ditch the bus. i'm guessing that's the end goal here. it'll be interesting how this unfolds or if he'll go MIA again later in the season.

as far as the college distance thing, i know he drove with his grandpa from ames to louisville for the tourney. that's like 650+ miles...

[chips93]

Just the amount of separation from his team and practices he'd have to miss makes it a nonstarter. There's like 4 cities a bus trip from Dallas makes any kind of sense for. What's he going to do when Houston's in LA then Portland the next night then Utah two days after that or something

is he definitely not flying at all?

i think he plans on just using the bus, when its possible, not that he is only gonna play games he can drive to.

[RoseCity07]

I don't understand why he doesn't take medication for it. If he does, why isn't it working? Someone told me that the medication messes his focus up. That sounds like bullshit. I've taken anxiety medication before and it did not affect my focus. I'm not everyone, but I had no idea that some people can't play basketball on it.

[RoseCity07]

I wish that more people (who had this problem) understood that it is a behavioral disorder. It's not a "disease" as some people have described it as and it's very correctable. I'm living proof of that. Having said that, as others have said it takes major guts for a guy with this problem to choose a career like playing in the NBA. A career that involves frequent flights, a lot of media obligations, playing in front of thousands of fans, tremendous training schedule and pressures of winning, etc...I don't know whether he will succeed in doing all this but I do know I have an ultimate amount of respect for him for not giving up on his dream.

Yes, a disorder caused by brain chemicals which means it is physical. It's a physical issue just like blindness or deafness. He can't control it. The difference though is that there is a lot of help to turn to for anxiety.

[Clifton]

I hope he can get past it, but he's in the wrong career path.
Yup. If you can't cut it, you can't cut it. Being an NBA player requires more than an ability to play basketball well. You have to be able to play 100 48-minute games every year for years at a time, you have to do it in a huge arena, you have to do it with pressure, you have to do it with 11 other guys. If you can't cut it, you need to do something else.

There is a "war" element to professional sports. And if you've got 12 warriors, you can't have one of them having all these special needs and you have him not because he's an asset but because you feel bad and you wish he could produce.

[C-Webb4]

Yes, a disorder caused by brain chemicals which means it is physical. It's a physical issue just like blindness or deafness. He can't control it. The difference though is that there is a lot of help to turn to for anxiety.
I challenge you to actually do some legit research on the subject. The "chemical imbalance" theory has been around for years but there's been numerous tests and none have confirmed or supported that fact. I say this as someone who was told that same theory by a psychiatrist and given some vitamins and seratonin pills to balance it out and they had no affect whatsoever. Numerous studies have compared the results of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy vs. pills and CBT without pills has proven to be the method that cures most sufferers. And has been the one that has brought me at least to the brink of a cure now compared to where I was. It is controllable, and not just controllable, curable, and it's ignorance on the subject to think otherwise. And it's not physical whatsoever. People with anxiety issues by themself have no physical symptoms. It's your mind that makes you feel like you do.

[RoseCity07]

I challenge you to actually do some legit research on the subject. The "chemical imbalance" theory has been around for years but there's been numerous tests and none have confirmed or supported that fact. I say this as someone who was told that same theory by a psychiatrist and given some vitamins and seratonin pills to balance it out and they had no affect whatsoever. Numerous studies have compared the results of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy vs. pills and CBT without pills has proven to be the method that cures most sufferers. And has been the one that has brought me at least to the brink of a cure now compared to where I was. It is controllable, and not just controllable, curable, and it's ignorance on the subject to think otherwise. And it's not physical whatsoever. People with anxiety issues by themself have no physical symptoms. It's your mind that makes you feel like you do.

They did not work for you, but that does not mean there is anything wrong with you. You can be depressed and medication might not do anything to help. I'm just saying in some cases medication does correct it. That is evidence in my opinion that there is a chemical imbalance in certain cases. I don't know really know why some anxiety can be cured with therapy but I think that's great.

Just like medication didn't work for you, your solution might not work for certain people. Both treatments are options.

[C-Webb4]

Medication contains it, it doesn't correct it. I'd love to see the research you have that shows that medication by itself has corrected an anxiety disorder.

[daily]

They did not work for you, but that does not mean there is anything wrong with you. You can be depressed and medication might not do anything to help. I'm just saying in some cases medication does correct it. That is evidence in my opinion that there is a chemical imbalance in certain cases. I don't know really know why some anxiety can be cured with therapy but I think that's great.

Just like medication didn't work for you, your solution might not work for certain people. Both treatments are options.Good post, Anxiety disorders are not caused by any one thing. All cases are different, all patients are different. For some people it's life crippling problem for others it's a minor annoyance. Everyone deals with it in different ways, not every docotr approaches the problem form the same angle

Anyone, Doctor, therapist, indian chief or even somebody who suffers some form of anxiety disorder themselves, who tries to make it a one size fits all problem is doing those that suffer a terrible disservice. You can't say it worked for me so it has to work for that person because what they suffer from could be 180 degrees the other way. Just like not all spot are measles, not all coughs are bronchitis, not all anxiety disorders are the same.

[C-Webb4]

As I said, find one piece of evidence that shows that medicine has cured anxiety for someone without therapy and i'll gladly say I stand corrected.

[RoseCity07]

Medication contains it, it doesn't correct it. I'd love to see the research you have that shows that medication by itself has corrected an anxiety disorder.

I agree. I guess I would say for some it's like a cure because their anxiety isn't ongoing. The medication just gets them through the times they need it. I don't have any research and I don't want to go find any right now. I doubt there is any. I have nothing against therapy especially if it can help the person permanently get over their anxiety. All I'm saying, if that doesn't work, then why not just treat it with medication so he can get out on the floor?

[ZeN]

As I said, find one piece of evidence that shows that medicine has cured anxiety for someone without therapy and i'll gladly say I stand corrected.
Does it have to be pharmaceutical medicine in your opinion?

[ZeN]

Good post, Anxiety disorders are not caused by any one thing. All cases are different, all patients are different. For some people it's life crippling problem for others it's a minor annoyance. Everyone deals with it in different ways, not every docotr approaches the problem form the same angle

Anyone, Doctor, therapist, indian chief or even somebody who suffers some form of anxiety disorder themselves, who tries to make it a one size fits all problem is doing those that suffer a terrible disservice. You can't say it worked for me so it has to work for that person because what they suffer from could be 180 degrees the other way. Just like not all spot are measles, not all coughs are bronchitis, not all anxiety disorders are the same.


QFT

Will rep.

[C-Webb4]

I agree. I guess I would say for some it's like a cure because their anxiety isn't ongoing. The medication just gets them through the times they need it. I don't have any research and I don't want to go find any right now. I doubt there is any. I have nothing against therapy especially if it can help the person permanently get over their anxiety. All I'm saying, if that doesn't work, then why not just treat it with medication so he can get out on the floor?
Ok fair enough. And I wasn't saying there is a blanket cure that works for everyone by the way. All I was saying is that some see a "cure" in a different way than others. My mother has anxiety issues too and she doesn't do any therapy. She takes anxiety meds and has done so for about the past 15 years. They do help her to feel mellowed out and lower her stress levels but if she ever can't take her pills or runs out or for any reason misses a dose, her anxiety levels are significantly higher than they were without the pills. So at it's core, the "cure" lies in facing your fears and retraining your brain into how to handle it when your symptoms arise. I'm not just pulling this out of my ass or stating what has worked or not worked for me, it's scientific fact, it's been tested.

[ZeN]

I don't understand why he doesn't take medication for it. If he does, why isn't it working? Someone told me that the medication messes his focus up. That sounds like bullshit. I've taken anxiety medication before and it did not affect my focus. I'm not everyone, but I had no idea that some people can't play basketball on it.
That can definitely alter your focus, attention longevity, mood, motivation..among many other things.

[ZeN]

Ok fair enough. And I wasn't saying there is a blanket cure that works for everyone by the way. All I was saying is that some see a "cure" in a different way than others. My mother has anxiety issues too and she doesn't do any therapy. She takes anxiety meds and has done so for about the past 15 years. They do help her to feel mellowed out and lower her stress levels but if she ever can't take her pills or runs out or for any reason misses a dose, her anxiety levels are significantly higher than they were without the pills. So at it's core, the "cure" lies in facing your fears and retraining your brain into how to handle it when your symptoms arise. I'm not just pulling this out of my ass or stating what has worked or not worked for me, it's scientific fact, it's been tested.
Your mothers 'anxiety' didn't become worse when she ran out of meds.. Its the fact that the drugs are so potent that she started immediately feeling the withdrawal symptoms.

withdrawal from any substance will give you headaches, the shakes, and depending on the specific case can get quite severe.

A lot of people get added anxiety simply by dropping caffeine cold turkey.. So one can only imagine with SSRI type meds.

If you stop the meds suddenly instead of progressively tapering off.. You will feel anxiety (and even panic attacks) much worse than your original problem. You end up in a highened state of anxious neurosis.

[C-Webb4]

Your mothers 'anxiety' didn't become worse when she ran out of meds.. Its the fact that the drugs are so potent that she started immediately feeling the withdrawal symptoms.

withdrawal from any substance will give you headaches, the shakes, and depending on the specific case can get quite severe.

A lot of people get added anxiety simply by dropping caffeine cold turkey.. So one can only imagine with SSRI type meds.
Yes, I know that even though I didn't state it in my post. It becomes a chemical dependency after awhile. Point being still that the pills don't cure anxiety. They just make it more manageable. And there are a high percentage of people in clinical studies (something like 80%+) who have been able to be cured without them. Or with a combination of the pills and therapy but weaning off the pills slowly as they improve.

[ZeN]

Yes, I know that even though I didn't state it in my post. It becomes a chemical dependency after awhile. Point being still that the pills don't cure anxiety. They just make it more manageable. And there are a high percentage of people in clinical studies (something like 80%+) who have been able to be cured without them. Or with a combination of the pills and therapy but weaning off the pills slowly as they improve.
I see what what your saying.

I personally feel that regardless of what you do, there is no cure.

No matter what medicinal products you take or therapy you experience.. If you have these issues, you are always a few catalyst situations away from rebounding to the foul state.

Which is why no matter what you do, it is important to adjust the lifestyle to things that will maintain a certain sense of equilibrium. Work on habits that will allow you to be stable, avoid things that set off the condition, and face problems with an open mind and willingness to change.

Unfortunately most issues like the one in the OP can only be solved by Shock. He will have to suffer in forcing himself to face reality, evaluate the situation, and come to terms with what needs to be done for his life to change.


Nothing will change...until he wants things to change.. Acceptance can be a real bitch..

[C-Webb4]

I see what what your saying.

I personally feel that regardless of what you do, there is no cure.

No matter what medicinal products you take or therapy you experience.. If you have these issues, you are always a few catalyst situations away from rebounding to the foul state.

Which is why no matter what you do, it is important to adjust the lifestyle to things that will maintain a certain sense of equilibrium. Work on habits that will allow you to be stable, avoid things that set off the condition, and face problems with an open mind and willingness to change.

Unfortunately most issues like the one in the OP can only be solved by Shock. He will have to suffer in forcing himself to face reality, evaluate the situation, and come to terms with what needs to be done for his life to change.
Right. I respectfully disagree. But... It would probably help for me to explain what I think "cured" means. When I say I think it can be cured, I don't see a cure as going back to exactly how you were pre anxiety disorder. I see a cure as now having the knowledge and understanding as to what they really are which increases your ability to cope when the symptoms do arise. Making them come far less frequently and with a much ity to the point where it's not even something you spend a lot of time overthinkink and worrying about compiling the problem and adding fear.

[C-Webb4]

Sorry I'm on with my phone right now. But a brief correction cure meaning more understanding leading to less frequency and lower intensity when those symptoms do come back.

[ZeN]

Sorry I'm on with my phone right now. But a brief correction cure meaning more understanding leading to less frequency and lower intensity when those symptoms do come back.
Yeah I definitely agree with that. Without understanding there can be no resolution.

[niko]

but he's still going to be flying to most games. he's just taking a bus in driveable situations. when someone is suffering from anxiety, you want to gradually expose them to their stressor/trigger, not immerse them with no escape.

i don't know if that will work but i can see how it's an early sensible plan. as he gets more used to flying, he should be able to ditch the bus. i'm guessing that's the end goal here. it'll be interesting how this unfolds or if he'll go MIA again later in the season.

as far as the college distance thing, i know he drove with his grandpa from ames to louisville for the tourney. that's like 650+ miles...
He's going to get to the games late ,not be with his teammates. It's a terrible solution. I don't get why he isn't taking time off to fix this, to learn to fly, to get medication, etc. But this thought that he'll just be separate from the team is no solution at all.

[bagelred]

I actually think this makes some sense. I don't know how bad the schedule will be for the Rockets (in the future, maybe the NBA takes tis into consideration) but this makese sense.



Well, firstly, there is NO CHANCE the schedule makers take one players circumstance and adjust the schedule to it. That would be ridiculous.

And even if they did (which they won't), what could they do? Houston is far from every other city except Dallas and San Antonio...and even those cities aren't that close. Everything else is a definite flight, and long flights too.

[C-Webb4]

He's going to get to the games late ,not be with his teammates. It's a terrible solution. I don't get why he isn't taking time off to fix this, to learn to fly, to get medication, etc. But this thought that he'll just be separate from the team is no solution at all.
That's the thing that most people don't seem to understand. Anxiety is not like a torn ACL or a broken bone or something of that nature where you take sometime off, get it fixed up and healed up, rehab, and you're good to go. It's really somewhat of a continual longterm process. It's not like "ok go fix your anxiety and come back when you don't have it anymore." The truth of the is any team that picked him would be taking a risk. I think they must've had to take that into consideration before picking him and if not, that would be on them for not realizing the seriousness and the patience required for someone with such a problem.

[lilbeastnani]

update: http://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/wizards/royce-white-confronting-anxiety-disorder-and-fear-of-flying-joins-rockets-at-training-camp/2012/10/08/7993c752-1189-11e2-9a39-1f5a7f6fe945_story.html


Royce White finally got to focus on basketball Monday, joining the Houston Rockets after he missed the first week of training camp to form a long-term plan for his anxiety issues.

White, the 16th overall pick in the draft, has a deal with the team to travel by bus to some games this season, a compromise he says will help him cope with his anxiety, fear of flying and obsessive compulsive disorder over the long term.

“He’s got to catch up on what we’re doing,” McHale said. “It’s always hard when you’re a young guy and you miss early camp practice, when you’re trying to establish your principles and what you’re doing. But he’ll be fine.”

The Rockets decided he was too good to pass up. And over the summer, White flew with the team to Las Vegas and to the rookie orientation in New York City, suggesting that he had a handle on his aerophobia.

As training camp approached, though, White felt apprehensive about starting his first NBA season without a plan to cope with his disorder. He contacted the Rockets through his agent and the two sides negotiated their arrangement.

“I’m excited,” White said. “It’s a different plan than I’ve ever had going into a season. I’m happy that the Rockets are willing to work with me, and I’m excited to see what I can do under new circumstances.”
“Royce is going to have a little bit of a different path in the NBA,” McHale said. “If your choice is to have a 10-hour bus ride, or an hour flight, everyone would want to take an hour flight. He’s just going to have to work his way through all that stuff.

“We’re here to help him and support him as much as we can,” McHale said, “but he eventually has to be responsible to your team and your teammates. That’s the biggest thing.”

On Monday, White easily answered questions in front of a throng of media. If anything, White said going public with his personal struggle has been cathartic.

“In a lot of areas, we’re actors,” White said with a smile. “The camera doesn’t frighten me. Planes do.”

He hopes the attention his situation has generated creates more awareness for mental-health issues and treatment.

“It helps for me, just to be honest,” he said. “One of the things that comes with anxiety is trying to hide from what you’re scared of and oftentimes, that is the spotlight. Being honest and having good feedback obviously helps me out.”

His teammates seemed happy to have White back, greeting him with high-fives and encouragement when practice began. If White can blossom, the Rockets think he can provide a strong — and much-needed — inside presence.

[Mr Know It All]

As someone who has a profound fear of flying myself since I was young, I can honestly say I feel Royce White's pain and anxiety. I have a flight scheduled for a trip to England this winter, and I am already dreading and stressing massively over it.

In my opinion, or at least in my case, it is due mostly to a loss of control. You can throw as many statistics about the safety of flying as you want at me, but it still can't relieve that anxiety and complete lack of control that goes with putting your life in the hands of that pilot on that airplane. It's an irrational fear, there's no doubt about it, but a completely understandable one speaking from my own shoes.

[bettalaylow]

Maybe basketball isn't the ideal career for him....must be tough but still he's going to struggle if this is the case.

Agreed he's going to have weeks where he's playing in NY one night and Houston (just using random examples) he'll miss a ton of games if he travels only by bus. Playing in the NBA flying is required dude needs to find another career.

I lost some sympathy for him when I realized he left college early. He knew going in that flying was apart of being an NBA player yet he left college with no degree so that he could equip himself for a career more suited to his illness. And anxiety doesn't appear to have curtailed his criminal activities.

[bettalaylow]

As someone who has a profound fear of flying myself since I was young, I can honestly say I feel Royce White's pain and anxiety. I have a flight scheduled for a trip to England this winter, and I am already dreading and stressing massively over it.

In my opinion, or at least in my case, it is due mostly to a loss of control. You can throw as many statistics about the safety of flying as you want at me, but it still can't relieve that anxiety and complete lack of control that goes with putting your life in the hands of that pilot on that airplane. It's an irrational fear, there's no doubt about it, but a completely understandable one speaking from my own shoes.

I have a fear of flying and I played basketball at a small DI school even for my school flying was a requirement. This guy played at a big school how the hell was playing in college. But what finally helped me get over fear of flying was Xanax. I've done 18 hr flights sleeping like a baby. Before that I had to white knuckle it.

[chips93]

bump

so royce got to the game in detroit last night, he got a DNP-CD, i guess he flew

has anybody heard anything new regarding his fear of flying, like official statements from the team, or from white himself

im surprised nobody mentioned this, after all the fuss over him wanting the bus, and appearing to be unable to fly to away games

unless there was something i missed . . .

[RoseCity07]

I think a lot of people are afraid to fly but what his anxiety does is it take that fear and amplifies it. I hope he has good teammates that can give him confidence. He seems like he could be one hell of a player. I was watching some clips on youtube and he has a similar body type as Charles Barkley.

[Whoah10115]

I think a lot of people are afraid to fly but what his anxiety does is it take that fear and amplifies it. I hope he has good teammates that can give him confidence. He seems like he could be one hell of a player. I was watching some clips on youtube and he has a similar body type as Charles Barkley.



Without being short...and his body is a lot more dense...he has some of those Barkley qualities.

[ILLsmak]

He needs to smoke some weed before every flight. I bet it would solve his problem.

Petition for the NBA to legalize weed for him plz.

that's not true haha. Also weed stays in your system for awhile and would make him groggy for the next game.

I think he just needs to fly. If he has to fly to SOME games, he will get over his anxiety. I have anxiety, too, and lately it's become to where I don't fly. However, when I was young and I few often... I got used to it.

-Smak