Kicking Through the Stigma: Zane Gonzalez’s Journey with OCD

by | Jan 23, 2025 | News

As the pressure mounts in the final seconds of an NFL game, all eyes fall on the kicker—a position often underappreciated until the stakes are sky-high. For Zane Gonzalez, placekicker for the Washington Commanders, his calm demeanor and ability to perform under pressure have earned him a spot in one of the most demanding roles in professional sports. However, a recent viral video brought unexpected scrutiny—not for his performance, but for a meticulous routine of adjusting his hair before making the game-winning field goal.

Social media quickly latched onto the footage, with viral posts mocking what appeared to be “nervous” or “excessive” behavior. One post quipped, “This has to be some sort of record for nervous hair fixing,” while another viral tweet read, “LOOK AT ZANE GONZALEZ LMAOOO No wonder he almost missed [crying emojis],” garnering over 83,000 likes. The comments came fast and sharp, but the real story behind the video wasn’t nervousness or indecision—it was resilience.

Gonzalez later revealed that his pre-kick routine is tied to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. By sharing his experience, Gonzalez has not only humanized the struggles of living with OCD but also shined a light on the intersection of mental health and high-pressure performance.

What is obsessive-compulsive disorder?

Obsessive-compulsive disorder, or OCD, is a mental health condition defined by persistent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental rituals (compulsions). These behaviors are often performed to reduce distress or anxiety caused by the obsessions. For Gonzalez, these compulsions are part of a disorder he did not choose but continues to manage with remarkable perseverance.

Managing OCD presents unique challenges, especially under the intense scrutiny of being an NFL player. Yet Gonzalez’s achievements—earning a career in one of the world’s most competitive sports leagues—highlight his determination and resilience.

Strength Through Perseverance

In the wake of online ridicule, Gonzalez didn’t lash out or retreat from public scrutiny. Instead, he remained steadfast, refusing to let the comments define him or his journey. By staying true to himself, he exemplified resilience and strength, showing that mental health challenges don’t diminish one’s ability to succeed at the highest level. He had this to say to the press:

“So as a younger person, you try to hide that a little bit. But as older—being a professional athlete, it’s like, ‘Hey, I’m here, I’m in the big moment, big stage. Do what you do, make the game, do that kind of stuff.’”

His response highlights an important lesson: resilience isn’t about being immune to criticism; it’s about continuing to move forward in the face of it. Gonzalez remains unfazed by the noise, focused on doing what he does best—performing under pressure and delivering for his team.

Mental Health and Metabolism: A Deeper Look

The story of Zane Gonzalez also raises important questions about mental health, particularly within the framework of the brain energy theory. Many assume that professional athletes, with their rigorous diets and exercise regimens, are immune to conditions like OCD. But mental and metabolic health aren’t solely about diet and exercise. Instead, there are myriad factors that can influence brain metabolism.

For example, infections like strep throat can lead to Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS), a condition that can trigger OCD or tic disorders. Autoimmune conditions, gut health, or even head injuries can result in neuroinflammation, which in turn can disrupt brain metabolism leading to mental health challenges, even when people are adhering to a “healthy” diet and exercising regularly.

Despite his athleticism, Gonzalez’s story underscores the multifaceted nature of brain metabolism and its role in mental health. It’s a poignant reminder that even the most physically fit individuals can still face invisible battles in their brains.

Leading By Example

Mental health treatment outcomes are typically evaluated using standardized tools like the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D) or the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) for schizophrenia. While these tools provide valuable data for research and clinical care, they don’t always capture what matters most to patients—their quality of life. For someone living with schizophrenia, a “successful” treatment might not just mean fewer hallucinations, but also the ability to maintain a job or reconnect with family.

The gap between clinical definitions of success and patient-defined recovery highlights a critical issue in mental health care. Many treatments aim for response or remission, but these benchmarks may fall short of addressing the holistic needs of individuals. Recovery, on the other hand, requires a more comprehensive approach that integrates mental, physical, and metabolic health.

Barriers to Recovery

Achieving recovery is not without its challenges. Many treatments fail to help patients achieve remission, so people are left with significant symptoms that prevent them from recovering. Others have side effects to medications, such as cognitive impairment or lack of motivation, that significantly impact quality of life. Additionally, stigma, fragmented care systems, and limited access to personalized treatment options can impede progress. Misaligned expectations also play a role. When patients expect full recovery quickly but only achieve response or remission, they may feel disheartened and disengage from care. Recovery takes time. It’s a journey.

Expanding the Definition of “Works”

To truly answer the question, “Does mental health treatment work?” we must broaden our definition of success. Effective treatment should not only reduce symptoms but also help individuals achieve their unique goals and aspirations. This requires a shift toward personalized care—treatments tailored to the individual’s biology, environment, and personal preferences.

Emerging therapies offer new hope. Metabolic and mitochondrial interventions, for example, aim to address the root causes of mental illness rather than just managing symptoms. Holistic approaches that incorporate therapy, lifestyle changes, and social support can also enhance recovery. By focusing on the whole person, rather than just their diagnosis, we can move closer to treatments that “work” in the truest sense of the word.

Mental health treatment can and does “work,” but the definition of “work” matters. Response, remission, and recovery represent different stages of improvement, each with its own significance. While response and remission are important, recovery should be the ultimate goal. By expanding our approach to mental health care and redefining success to include both clinical and personal outcomes, we can better meet the needs of those seeking treatment and help them live fuller, more meaningful lives.

Diet and Mental Health: Untangling Complex Mechanisms

Diet’s Influence Goes Beyond “Healthy Foods for Your Brain” The connection between diet and mental health is undeniable, but it’s far more complex than simply eating "healthy foods for your brain." Diet influences mental health through diverse mechanisms—ranging from...

A Revolutionary Year for Brain Energy

Brain Energy: Reflecting on 2024 and Looking Ahead to 2025 As 2024 draws to a close, I’m filled with gratitude and inspiration as I reflect on what has been an extraordinary year. The progress we’ve made together in advancing the understanding of metabolism’s role in...

A Holiday Message for Your Mind and Body

Happy Holidays! As the holiday season unfolds, we’re reminded of the diversity of traditions that mark this time of year. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Winter Solstice, or simply enjoy the quieter moments of year-end reflection, this is a season rich with...

A Warrior’s Comeback: Sam’s Story

After serving in the military for over ten years and working as a police officer in a busy city, Sam began to feel “broken.” She was struggling with PTSD, which started to affect her work performance and personal life. She was gaining weight rapidly despite no changes...

Celebrating Two Years of Brain Energy!

Two years ago, Brain Energy was published, sparking a global movement to revolutionize how we understand and treat mental health. Reflecting on this milestone, I am filled with gratitude, hope, and determination to continue this important work. The journey has been...

Thanksgiving: A Time for Gratitude, Connection, and Purpose

As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s a natural time to reflect on life’s blessings—family, relationships, and the purpose that gives life meaning. For many, this season brings warmth and connection, but it can also be a challenging time, especially for those who feel...

Election Results, Discord, and the Need for Unity

In the aftermath of a charged election season, we’re left facing not just the outcome on the ballot but the intense emotions and polarization these results leave behind. Many feel relieved, while others are fearful. Some are caught in a loop of anger or resentment...