Fremantle winger Nathan O’Driscoll has opened up on his battle with anxiety, revealing he has been on the brink of taking his own life on three separate occasions during “deep depressive states”.
The 23-year-old said “it feels like the right time” to speak up about his struggles, which comes after Carlton midfielder Elijah Hollands’ mental health episode against Collingwood in Round 6, and the passing of Adelaide captain Jordan Dawson’s brother.
Hollands was admitted to hospital last Monday night, four days after his erratic and concerning performance against the Magpies.
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Dawson missed the Crows’ clash with St Kilda later that round as he begun to grieve the loss of his older brother Jaryd, whose body was found on April 15 after a 24-hour search.
O’Driscoll, who has played 40 games in six seasons at the Dockers, said he wanted others to know their struggles are normal.
“I wasn’t going to post this, but with the recent focus on mental health around the league, it feels like the right time,” he wrote on Instagram on Wednesday.
“Over the past four years, I’ve had some incredible highs, but also some very low moments. I’ve struggled with anxiety, a constant need to feel like I belong, and always putting others before myself.
“There have been times where I’ve fallen into deep depressive states and three separate times where I’ve been extremely close to committing suicide.
“I’m sharing this because speaking up matters. No one is there to judge you, every person I’ve opened up to has supported me in ways I never expected.”
O’Driscoll said the perception of an AFL player’s life and the reality can be two starkly different things.
“From the outside, it might look like I have everything, but what’s going on internally can be a very different story. Everyone is dealing with something, and it’s okay to not be okay,” he added.
The midfielder went on to reveal he has recently lost someone within his close circle, which has naturally made things even tougher.
“I’ve always tried to be a positive, selfless person, but I’ve learned it’s okay to put yourself first sometimes. Valuing yourself is just as important as valuing others,” he said.
“The past few weeks have been especially tough after losing someone close to me, but leaning on my family, friends, and teammates has meant everything. I’m incredibly grateful for the people around me.
“There is so much good in this world. Whatever you’re going through, it will get better. Reach out, stay connected, and be kind to yourself.
“You are loved. You are seen. You are heard. Much love, Nath.”
The heavy post follows calls from players, including Geelong midfielder Bailey Smith and Western Bulldogs defender Rory Lobb, for a men’s mental health round to be introduced into the AFL fixture in the wake of the events of the past month.
O’Driscoll’s teammates rushed to his support, flooding the comments with messages of love.
His younger brother Aiden, who was drafted to the Western Bulldogs but was medically forced to retire before playing a game, wrote: “We all love you Nath. I’ll always be here for you, the best big brother anyone could ask for ❤️ You’re such a good person bro🤩.”
Aiden O’Driscoll retired from the AFL at age 18 due to serious concussion suffered at training, just months after being drafted.
Aiden and Nathan are also the brothers of Dockers AFLW star Emma O’Driscoll.
If you need help in a crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. For further information about depression contact beyondblue on 1300224636 or talk to your GP, local health professional or someone you trust.
