Ryan Day: Leading the charge for mental health awareness

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ryan Day, recognized for his achievements as a football coach, is making an even greater impact off the field by championing mental health. While trophies in the locker room mark his biggest wins, Day’s commitment to mental health stands out as one of his most significant contributions.

Day says that coaching is about more than just winning games — it's about impacting young people. 

“A lot of areas to unpack when it comes to mental health," he said.

Day has openly discussed the stigma that surrounds mental health, particularly the misconception that seeking help is a sign of weakness. He counters this, saying, “It’s actually a sign of strength.”

His advocacy is rooted in personal experience. 

Day shared stories of growing up after losing his father to suicide. He recalled how sharing his story initially felt heavy, but he believes the conversation should focus on addressing mental health proactively in everyday life, rather than only discussing it in the context of crisis.

Resilience at the core

Resilience is a central theme for the Day family. 

Day explained that building resilience is crucial — not just for overcoming adversity in sports, but in life.

Reflecting on his team’s journey, he notes, “We had to come out the back end of it, but that’s just life… the more that we can talk about this resilience, I feel like the more that we all understand it, the more we can battle this thing.”

Philanthropy and access

The Day family has established the Resiliency Fund and, in partnership with the Kids Mental Health Foundation, has donated millions to support the next steps in mental health care. Day stressed the importance of access to resources and understanding that everyone is at a different point in their mental health journey. 

“Having the facilities, having the access is gonna be critically important but also just the understanding of where we are in it all,” he said.

Setting an example

Day believes that by taking a public stance on mental health, he and his wife Nina help normalize asking for help among players and the broader community. 

“This is not a sign of weakness, but knowing that it’s OK to ask for help… it’s only gonna make you a better football player and then eventually a better dad and husband,” he explained.

A lasting impact

The Days’ efforts are not motivated by recognition, but by the desire to make a real difference. Day reflects on the impact of their work, sharing that he’s received calls from parents whose lives have been changed — or even saved — by his advocacy. 

“That’s why you get into coaching,” he said, underscoring the profound effect that supporting mental health can have on individuals and families.

Ryan Day’s leadership in mental health advocacy continues to resonate in Columbus and beyond, changing lives and inspiring others to see strength in seeking help.