Skip to main content

NFL Alumni Association and American Addiction Centers Team Up to Give Former Players Access to Addiction Treatment Amid COVID-19

BRENTWOOD, Tenn., April 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — At a time when many people are struggling to mentally cope with COVID-19 and turning to substances to get by, the NFL Alumni Association (NFLA) has partnered with American Addiction Centers (AAC) to provide a lifeline to former players and their families. Effective immediately, NFL alumni, their spouses and children will be eligible to receive a scholarship for treatment at AAC’s Desert Hope Treatment Center in Las Vegas. Desert Hope’s CEO, Derek Price, is a former Detroit Lions tight end and understands the challenges facing former professional athletes.
For more about the partnership, visit https://deserthopetreatment.com/nfl-alumni-and-families/“As a former NFL player, I’ve watched fellow athletes struggle with substance use, and to now be in a position to help them means the world to me,” said Price. “At Desert Hope, we’ve seen an extraordinary number of people seeking help for the first time or relapsing because of the stress, anxiety and isolation caused by COVID-19. We want these former athletes to know whatever they are facing right now, they are not alone and they have a place to turn.”Studies have shown that professional athletes are at risk for drug and/or alcohol addiction. One study conducted by the University of Michigan Institute for Social Research found the rate of heavy drinking and binge drinking among NFL retirees was slightly higher than the general population. Nearly 14% of young retirees admitted to binge drinking and nearly 5% of them had received treatment for alcohol addiction. Another study, “Injury, pain, and prescription opioid use among former National Football League (NFL) players,” reported that over half (52%) used opioids during their NFL career with 71% reporting misuse. Additionally, 15% of former NFL players who misused opioids continue to misuse them.“This is an extraordinary offer from Desert Hope,” said NFLA CEO Beasley Reece. “Many NFL players learn to self-medicate early on in their careers, and unfortunately, this can lead to addiction. The NFL Alumni is fortunate to have one of its own in a position of great responsibility. Derek Price is helping teammates battle substance abuse. During these difficult times, NFL players have a trusted place to turn to, knowing their dignity and privacy is safe. It takes a team to provide successful treatment. Addiction is an isolating disease, but we are asking our guys to reach out for support. Thanks to American Addiction Centers’ Desert Hope, you don’t have to do this alone.”Through this partnership, former players and their families will have access to a range of services at Desert Hope, including medical detox, residential treatment and outpatient telehealth options. The addiction treatment provider also offers many high-end amenities, from gourmet meals by a world-class chef to an indoor fitness center and hotel-style accommodations.“Our patients can trust they will receive high-quality care in a discreet and welcoming environment,” said Price. “Our top priority is helping them achieve long-term sobriety, so they can get back in the game of life.”About NFL Alumni AssociationFounded in 1967 by a small group of successful retired NFL players, the National Football League Alumni is the oldest, most well-known and well-respected retired player organization in professional sports. Membership includes thousands of retired players, coaches, front office executives, spouses, cheerleaders, and avid fans. A primary mission of NFL Alumni is “Caring for Our Own” as we inform, assist, and serve players in their post-NFL lives. Alumni are offered a diverse package of medical, business, and legal services to help keep them and their families healthy, productive, and connected to the league and their former teammates. NFLA is a non-profit organization.About American Addiction CentersAmerican Addiction Centers (OTC: AACH) is a leading provider of inpatient and outpatient substance abuse treatment services. We treat clients who are struggling with drug addiction, alcohol addiction and co-occurring mental/behavioral health issues. We currently operate substance abuse treatment facilities located throughout the United States. These facilities are focused on delivering effective clinical care and treatment solutions. For more information, please find us at www.AmericanAddictionCenters.org. We also offer several online resources for the public. Visit americanaddictioncenters.org/online-resources to learn more.Joy Sutton
Director of Corporate Communications
American Addiction Centers
jsutton@contactaac.com 
615-587-7728
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/934a7245-7fc2-4091-90bb-bfbb044510d8

Disclaimer & Cookie Notice

Welcome to GOLDEA services for Professionals

Before you continue, please confirm the following:

Professional advisers only

I am a professional adviser and would like to visit the GOLDEA CAPITAL for Professionals website.

Important Notice for Investors:

The services and products offered by Goldalea Capital Ltd. are intended exclusively for professional market participants as defined by applicable laws and regulations. This typically includes institutional investors, qualified investors, and high-net-worth individuals who have sufficient knowledge, experience, resources, and independence to assess the risks of trading on their own.

No Investment Advice:

The information, analyses, and market data provided are for general information purposes only and do not constitute individual investment advice. They should not be construed as a basis for investment decisions and do not take into account the specific investment objectives, financial situation, or individual needs of any recipient.

High Risks:

Trading in financial instruments is associated with significant risks and may result in the complete loss of the invested capital. Goldalea Capital Ltd. accepts no liability for losses incurred as a result of the use of the information provided or the execution of transactions.

Sole Responsibility:

The decision to invest or not to invest is solely the responsibility of the investor. Investors should obtain comprehensive information about the risks involved before making any investment decision and, if necessary, seek independent advice.

No Guarantees:

Goldalea Capital Ltd. makes no warranties or representations as to the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the information provided. Markets are subject to constant change, and past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results.

Regional Restrictions:

The services offered by Goldalea Capital Ltd. may not be available to all persons or in all countries. It is the responsibility of the investor to ensure that they are authorized to use the services offered.

Please note: This disclaimer is for general information purposes only and does not replace individual legal or tax advice.