Red Sox’s Jarren Duran opens up about mental health, attempted suicide in Netflix documentary

Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran bravely opened up about his struggles with mental health in an upcoming Netflix documentary series titled “The Clubhouse: A Year With the Red Sox.” In a candid interview, Duran revealed that two years prior to his breakout All-Star season in 2024, he faced intense bouts of depression and even attempted suicide.

Reflecting on the pressures of the game, Duran shared how the constant scrutiny and expectations took a toll on his mental well-being. “When you start losing games and your performance isn’t up to par, it can feel like the world is closing in on you,” the 28-year-old athlete expressed. The documentary delves into Duran’s journey from being a seventh-round draft pick in 2018 to making his MLB debut in 2021, highlighting the challenges he faced in transitioning from an infielder to an outfielder at the major league level.

Duran recalled feeling overwhelmed by the demands of the sport and the harsh criticism from fans and media alike. “They love you one day, and then the next day they’re on your case,” Duran shared, noting how some fans crossed the line by mocking his mental health struggles. The toxic atmosphere surrounding professional sports and the relentless pressure to perform added to Duran’s internal struggles.

The breaking point for Duran came when he found himself unable to cope with the negative self-talk and external criticism. “I couldn’t handle telling myself how much I sucked every day,” he admitted. The weight of the expectations and the constant criticism became unbearable, leading Duran to a dark place where he contemplated not wanting to be in the game or even on this planet.

In response to Duran’s bravery in speaking out about his mental health challenges, Red Sox President and CEO Sam Kennedy praised the outfielder for his courage and encouraged others to seek help when needed. “Jarren’s decision to share his story is an act of courage that goes beyond baseball,” Kennedy stated. “By opening up, he’s showing others that they’re not alone in their struggles and that seeking help is essential.”

Duran’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and the need for support within the sports community. His willingness to share his vulnerabilities and seek help sets an example for others facing similar struggles. The Red Sox organization stands behind Duran, offering him unwavering support and admiration for his resilience in the face of adversity.