Letter: Welsh gives students a source of hope

Regarding the July 20 article 'Iowa's Welsh opens up about fight with depression”:

Our students seek role models from athletes at every level. Sean Welsh publicly discussing his battles with depression vaults him to the front, in my opinion. My 5th and 6th grade students deal with mental health issues everyday, but often need the courage to speak out and seek help. Sean Welsh, knowingly or not, has provided students a source of hope and optimism to look toward as they search for their newest role model; I wish more the strength to do so.

Our thanks is owed to Kirk Ferentz and Welsh for giving educators another source to use to battle the mental health stigma that is far too common in our classrooms and communities.

Erik Johnson

Marion