Sports fans 'more sympathetic to depression' after athletes' revelations

Irish sports organisations are coming together today to raise awareness about mental illness.

The Lean On Me campaign, supported by the Professional Footballers Association of Ireland (PFAI) and the Irish Rugby Union Players Association , has released a study on depression in sport.

It found that 63% of respondents are more sympathetic to depression because high-profile sports stars have spoken about their own problems.

More than three quarters (76%) said the coverage has heightened their awareness of the issues of mental health and depression.

General secretary of the PFAI, Stephen McGuinness, said: “I have huge respect for the sports people who have spoken publicly about their struggles recently.

“Unfortunately there is a stigma around depression and players are reluctant to come forward and seek help for any problems they might be having, often because they feel it might show a weakness that will affect their selection or career.

“Just as your team helps you succeed on the pitch, they are also there to help off the pitch.

“The PFAI have partnered with the Lean on Me campaign to try and encourage our members and the wider public, to open up and talk to someone if they think they might be grappling with depression.”

The Lean on Me survey questioned 250 people actively involved in sport.