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Mental Health: A Pro Athlete's Story

Footie player Mark shares his lived experience with mental health issues and shows that, with help, you can make it out the other side.

"When I was 17, I played my first game in the Essendon seniors. [But] I felt terrible. I had all of these aches and pains in my body. It felt like I had a bad flu. I’d sit in the toilets before we did the warm-up, and I’d cry.

That was the start of me having mental health problems. I was told to stop feeling sorry for myself. If I hadn’t have gotten help, I don’t know what would have happened. It’s been tough, but I’m a living example that you can come out the other side."

If you’re feeling low, and experiencing the sorts of symptoms Mark shared, you might find chatting to a professional counsellor or Peer Support Worker a good place to start. They can help see where you are at, and can also suggest steps to seeking further, ongoing support if needed.

And if you feel like you need some additional help or advice, you’ll have free access to SANE’s ‘best in class’ 1 to 1 Wellbeing Check-in - a 25-minute mental health check-in and chat with a professional Peer Support Worker, completely anonymous and confidential, at a time that suits you.

This free Wellbeing Check-in is available exclusively to International Towers community members in Tower Two, Tower Three or International House.

BOOK YOUR FREE CHECK-IN



Remember, let’s stay connected and take care of ourselves this Mental Health Month!

 

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Mental Health Month encourages us all to think about our mental health and wellbeing, regardless of whether we may have a lived experience of mental ill-health or not. We’re incredibly proud and excited to partner with SANE Australia, a national charity helping people live long and fulfilling lives, free from stigma and discrimination. They support anyone affected by mental health issues, including family and friends, through information and stories, peer support, and counselling.