When the Mask Comes Off: Linus Ullmark’s Battle with Anxiety and Social Media Lies

Ed Berliner tells the overlooked story of NHL goaltender Linus Ullmark, who took a leave of absence to address severe anxiety and mental-health struggles following a trade. Ullmark speaks openly about panic attacks, grief, and the pressure athletes face to appear invulnerable. Within 24 hours of his leave, malicious online rumors about his personal life spread, harming his family and teammates. Berliner condemns the clickbait culture and urges people to treat athletes as humans, not entertainment, and to think twice before sharing harmful speculation.