Ohio State Coach Ryan Day Returns to New Hampshire to Address Student Mental Health

April 25, 2026 - 15:34

Ohio State head football coach Ryan Day visited New Hampshire on Friday to speak with students at the Palace Theatre about the importance of developing strong mental health habits. The event, which drew hundreds of attendees, focused on breaking the stigma surrounding mental health struggles and encouraging young people to prioritize their emotional well-being.

Day, who grew up in Manchester, New Hampshire, shared personal stories about his own experiences with mental health challenges, including the loss of his father to suicide when Day was a child. He emphasized that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and urged students to build supportive networks among friends, family, and trusted adults.

“Mental health is just as important as physical health,” Day told the audience. “We need to normalize conversations about anxiety, depression, and stress, especially among young people who often feel pressure to appear perfect.”

The coach also discussed practical strategies for maintaining mental wellness, such as establishing daily routines, practicing mindfulness, and setting boundaries around social media use. He encouraged students to check in on their peers and to recognize warning signs that someone might be struggling.

Day’s visit was part of a broader initiative to expand mental health resources in New Hampshire schools. Organizers noted that the event provided a rare opportunity for students to hear directly from a high-profile figure about a topic that is often difficult to discuss.

Following the presentation, Day participated in a question-and-answer session, where students asked about balancing high expectations with self-care and how to support friends facing mental health crises. The coach’s message resonated deeply with many in attendance, who left the theatre feeling empowered to prioritize their own mental health and to support others in doing the same.