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Victoria Garrick Browne: A Symbol of Strength in Mental Health Advocacy
Victoria Garrick Browne is not just a former Division I volleyball player; she is a beacon of strength and resilience, known for her advocacy in mental health awareness and body positivity. In her groundbreaking TEDx talk during her sophomore year of college, she bravely opened up about her struggles with anxiety and depression, which resonated widely and went viral. Today, Victoria continues to inspire as a social media influencer, speaker, and the host of the “Real Pod” podcast.
Victoria believes that addressing mental health is a universal human experience. “It’s not a weakness to deal with a mental health issue. It’s human,” she asserts. Her message emphasizes that seeking help should not be viewed as a failure but rather a courageous step toward self-improvement. Victoria’s candidness about her journey serves as an encouragement for others to prioritize their mental well-being with the same determination they apply to their passions and crafts.
Recently, Victoria took a moment to reflect on her personal journey, sharing some of her favorite things and experiences in an interview with Women’s Health.
Morning Routine
Victoria starts her day with mindfulness. When her Hatch alarm clock goes off, she takes a moment to breathe deeply and appreciate her surroundings—an act that sets a tone of presence and calmness for the rest of her day.
Inspiration
Her older brother, Jonathan, a former Division I and professional golfer, serves as her greatest inspiration. His dedication to his sport has taught Victoria the importance of hard work and passion.
Nutrition and Fitness
After workouts, Victoria enjoys a protein-packed peanut butter and chocolate smoothie, highlighting her focus on nutrition and recovery. Her go-to protein powder is Promix Whey Protein, emphasizing her commitment to natural and healthy ingredients.
Achievements
Victoria’s proudest moment came when her nonprofit organization, The Hidden Opponent, secured a partnership with Adidas. This initiative aims to support athletes grappling with mental health issues, allowing them to expand their reach and impact.
Motivation and Music
To fuel her energy, Victoria curates a playlist titled “Victoria Energy,” featuring uplifting tracks like the Seeb remix of Taylor Swift’s “Delicate.” She embraces mantras that encourage confidence and self-trust, reminding herself and her husband that “it’s not that deep” and that they can rely on their future selves to navigate challenges.
Personal Highlights
The moment Victoria felt on top of the world was when she met NFL star Travis Kelce, showcasing her ability to celebrate personal milestones. Alongside lighter moments, she indulges in self-care by enjoying a delicious iced oat milk matcha latte—an evolving taste for her.
Victoria’s recent trip to Paris for the Olympic Games was another highlight, where she watched friends compete in beach volleyball—a surreal experience that blended her passion for sports and support for her peers.
As she continues to advocate for mental health, body positivity, and athlete support, Victoria Garrick Browne stands as a testament to resilience. Her journey inspires many to embrace authenticity and prioritize mental health just as fiercely as they pursue their athletic goals.
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