NFL Legend, Pro Bowler, and 2007 NFL Comeback Player of the Year Greg Ellis is a dedicated advocate for mental wellness. He supports the belief that Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Theory plays a crucial role in understanding mental health. This theory posits that human motivation develops progressively—from the fulfillment of basic physiological needs to the pursuit of complex psychological and self-actualization goals. When these foundational needs go unmet, individuals may experience significant disruptions in their mental and emotional well-being.
Greg emphasizes that unmet needs are often addressed in unhealthy ways, a concept he refers to as “misuses.” Misuse occurs when something—particularly one’s body or mind —is used improperly or for unintended purposes.
He stresses the importance of reprogramming our minds and bodies to operate in alignment with how the Creator designed us to function, even in times when our essential needs are not fully met. Rather than compromising the intended purpose of our mental and physical capacities, Greg encourages the creation of systems and environments that provide people with realistic opportunities to meet their needs at every level of human existence.