Dodgers Use Andrew Tole as a Poster Child For Their Charity
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I am deeply concerned about the way we view mental illness in our society, especially when it comes to people of color. Recently, I came across an article about Andrew Toles, a former baseball player for the Los Angeles Dodgers who is struggling with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. While it’s great to see the Dodgers supporting Toles by renewing his contract and providing health insurance, I can’t help but feel frustrated by the way this story is being framed.
Firstly, it is not necessary for the public to know about Toles’ mental health struggles. It feels exploitative to use his situation as a means to promote the Dodgers’ charitable efforts. Furthermore, it’s concerning to see that he was diagnosed with both bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. It’s possible that his therapist was not informed on how to properly diagnose a person of color or did not take into account the impact of the pandemic and his injury on his mental health.
It’s also frustrating to see the focus solely on the biological factors of mental illness, while neglecting the environmental factors that can contribute to it. Going through a difficult time like tearing an ACL can lead to mental health issues and it’s important that we address these environmental factors instead of solely relying on medication.
Another point that I find frustrating is the way in which Toles’ father speaks about his son’s condition. While it’s great that he is supportive, his comment about how “schizophrenia is nothing that he and God can’t handle” is concerning. It’s important to understand that mental illness is not a sign of weakness or a lack of faith in God. In fact, some religious beliefs can actually exacerbate mental health symptoms, leading to a double bind for those who struggle with mental illness and hold those beliefs.
Lastly, I want to mention the possible impact of childhood experiences on Toles’ mental health. While I cannot say for certain if he was spanked as a child, studies have shown that physical punishment can lead to a dysregulated nervous system and behavioral expressions that can be classified as bipolar disorder.
Overall, I am saddened by this article and it highlights the need for a more nuanced conversation about mental health, especially when it comes to people of color. I am frustrated that as a black man, I feel afraid to fully express my emotions for fear of being labeled with a mental illness. It’s time to start having honest and open discussions about mental health and its impact on marginalized communities.
