Episode 16: Corey Hirsch

Episode 16: Corey Hirsch

From A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health by CMHA Kelowna and Jessica Samuels

September 24, 2025 · 30 min · Episode 16

About this episode

Corey Hirsch shares his journey with OCD and mental health struggles during his hockey career.

In this powerful episode of A Way Forward, host Jessica Samuels sits down with Corey Hirsch — former NHL goaltender, Stanley Cup champion, Olympic silver medalist, broadcaster, and mental health advocate. From the outside, Corey seemed to be living the dream at the height of his hockey career. But behind the mask, he was struggling with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and suicidal thoughts that nearly cost him his life. Corey opens up about: -The hidden reality of living with OCD while playing in the NHL. -Why stigma kept him silent for over 20 years. -How sharing his 2017 Players’ Tribune article, “Dark, Dark, Dark”, changed the conversation for him and countless others. -The importance of being “that person” someone can talk to without judgment. -The tools he uses today to manage his mental health, from therapy and medication to exercise, meditation, and community. This candid and inspiring conversation reminds us that talking about our struggles saves lives — and that healing begins when we break the silence. ✨ Key takeaway: Mental health is health. Be the person someone can turn to. Resources & Links: Dark Dark Dark…

People in this episode

Host: Jessica Samuels

Guest: Corey Hirsch

Topics covered

  • mental health
  • OCD
  • athlete struggles
  • stigma
  • advocacy
  • healing
  • support

Keywords

  • Corey Hirsch
  • mental health
  • OCD
  • NHL
  • advocacy
  • stigma
  • therapy
  • medication
  • exercise
  • meditation

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: NHL, Players’ Tribune, CMHA Kelowna

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