October is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month, a global effort promoting empathy, understanding, and united action. Beyond the intense competitions, demanding seasons, and national pressure, curlers share personal stories of resilience, connection, and courage.
Canadian curler Brett Gallant considers working with a sports psychologist a vital part of maintaining his mental health. Competing under constant pressure, he values having tools and support to manage stress effectively.
“When you’re in these kinds of high-pressure events all the time, it’s nice to have some training on how to deal with it,” said Gallant. “It’s also good to have someone to reach out to if you’re struggling.”
Gallant credits his wife and teammate, Jocelyn Peterman, with helping him stay grounded and balanced amid challenges.
“She knows the pressures and feelings that come with sport. It’s nice to have people to lean on, to talk to — that’s important.”
Reflecting on his team, Gallant emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and collective growth.
“Everyone’s dealing with stresses and anxieties, and we’re learning how to deal with them better. It’s OK to not be perfectly OK.”
Following the Beijing 2022 Olympic Winter Games, Canadian curler Rachel Homan experienced one of the hardest moments of her career, narrowly missing medal contention by mere millimetres during a mixed doubles loss.
Homan’s journey, like Gallant’s, highlights the emotional depth behind professional sport — where mental strength and personal support often define success as much as skill and precision do.
Author’s Summary: The personal reflections of curlers Brett Gallant and Rachel Homan reveal how mental health awareness, emotional resilience, and supportive relationships sustain athletes both on and off the ice.