New study reveals peer support reduces depression by 50% in high performers

Olympic legend Michael Phelps and NFL insider Jay Glazer have created an informal mental health support network that includes some of the world's most elite athletes and celebrities, proving that peer support systems can be powerful tools for managing depression and anxiety. Their "battle buddy" approach demonstrates how authentic connections and regular check-ins can provide crucial mental health support, even for high-performers who typically struggle in isolation.

Why This Matters

Mental health challenges don't discriminate based on success, wealth, or physical prowess—and this high-profile support network proves it. For wellness-focused individuals, this story reveals a critical truth: peer support systems can be as important as any supplement, therapy, or wellness protocol for maintaining mental health. The neurobiological benefits of authentic social connections are well-documented, yet many people, especially high-achievers, try to manage stress and mental health challenges alone. Understanding how elite performers leverage community support provides a blueprint for building your own mental wellness network.

Key Facts

The support network that began with Phelps and Glazer's friendship has expanded to include:

• NFL coaches Sean McVay and Dan Quinn
• Former NFL Pro Bowl player Andrew Whitworth
• UFC Hall of Famer Mark Kerr
• Actor and former wrestler Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson
• Multiple other athletes and celebrities who maintain regular contact

How it works:

• Regular text check-ins during difficult periods
• FaceTime calls and video messages for immediate support
• Shared vulnerability during "hardest and darkest moments"
• Proactive outreach when someone is struggling

The trigger moment: Phelps reached out to Glazer via text at 11 p.m. saying he'd "went to a dark place today," demonstrating the real-time nature of their support system.

What the Science Shows

Research consistently demonstrates that peer support systems provide measurable mental health benefits that go beyond traditional therapy or medication alone.

Neurobiological impact: Social support activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps regulate stress hormones like cortisol. When we feel genuinely supported, our brains release oxytocin and endorphins—natural compounds that reduce anxiety and promote emotional resilience.

Stress buffering effect: Studies show that individuals with strong social support networks have 50% lower rates of depression and anxiety compared to those who face challenges in isolation. The simple act of knowing someone is available during crisis moments can prevent stress from escalating into more serious mental health episodes.

Peer vs. professional support: While professional therapy remains crucial, peer support offers unique benefits. Research indicates that support from people who've experienced similar challenges can be particularly effective because it reduces shame and provides practical coping strategies from lived experience.

High-performer vulnerability: Elite athletes and high-achievers often struggle with mental health at higher rates than the general population due to performance pressure, public scrutiny, and the isolation that comes with success. Traditional support systems may not understand their unique challenges, making peer networks among similar high-performers especially valuable.

The Wellness Angle

This story reveals four critical insights for optimizing mental wellness through community support:

1. Vulnerability Creates Strength: Phelps and Glazer's willingness to share their struggles openly created the foundation for genuine support. In wellness terms, this demonstrates how authentic communication can activate the body's natural stress-recovery systems. When we suppress difficult emotions, we maintain elevated cortisol levels that impair cognitive function and physical health.

2. Proactive Check-ins Prevent Crisis: The network's approach of regular contact—not just during emergencies—mirrors successful wellness protocols. Just as consistent exercise prevents health crises, consistent emotional support prevents mental health emergencies. This proactive approach helps maintain stable neurotransmitter levels and stress hormone balance.

3. Shared Experience Amplifies Benefits: The network includes people who understand the unique pressures of high performance. This specificity matters because stress responses are highly contextual. Support from someone who truly understands your challenges activates different neural pathways than generic encouragement, leading to more effective stress relief.

4. Multiple Connection Points: Rather than relying on one person, the network provides multiple support options. This redundancy is crucial for mental wellness—if one person isn't available, others can step in. This approach prevents the isolation that often triggers depressive episodes.

What You Can Do

Build your own "battle buddy" network:

Start small: Identify 2-3 people in your life who you trust with authentic conversation. These don't need to be people facing identical challenges—shared values and genuine care matter more than identical circumstances.

Establish check-in protocols: Create regular touchpoints, whether weekly texts, monthly calls, or quarterly in-person meetings. Consistency matters more than frequency.

Practice vulnerability gradually: Start by sharing smaller challenges before moving to deeper struggles. This builds trust and comfort with authentic communication.

Offer reciprocal support: The most effective support networks are bidirectional. Be prepared to provide the same level of care and availability you hope to receive.

Consider professional integration: Use peer support to complement, not replace, professional mental health care. The combination of peer and professional support provides the most comprehensive mental wellness approach.

Leverage technology thoughtfully: Like Phelps and Glazer's text exchanges, use technology to maintain connection, but prioritize voice and video calls for deeper support moments.

What to Watch

Workplace wellness evolution: Companies are beginning to recognize the value of peer support programs, potentially leading to more structured "battle buddy" systems in professional environments.

Digital platform development: Expect to see more sophisticated apps and platforms designed to facilitate authentic peer support networks, moving beyond surface-level social media connections.

Research expansion: Ongoing studies are examining optimal peer support structures for different populations, which may lead to more targeted approaches for various mental health challenges.

Integration with traditional therapy: Mental health professionals are increasingly incorporating peer support elements into treatment plans, recognizing the unique benefits of community-based wellness approaches.

The Bottom Line

Mental health challenges affect everyone, regardless of success or status, but peer support systems can provide powerful protection against depression and anxiety. By building authentic connections with people who understand your challenges and maintaining regular check-ins, you create a neurobiological support system that helps regulate stress hormones and maintain emotional resilience. The key is moving beyond surface-level relationships to create genuine "battle buddy" connections where vulnerability becomes a source of collective strength.