Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you’re struggling, says ex-Power defender Matthew Broadbent
A former Port Adelaide player who took a break from AFL this year to deal with mental health struggles is urging those battling to come forward and seek help.
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Former Port Adelaide defender Matthew Broadbent is taking huge strides towards overcoming his mental health struggles and urges others battling to never fear speaking up.
Broadbent, who signed with South Adelaide on Thursday after being delisted from the Power, took a month off the AFL this year to focus on his mental health and wellbeing.
The 29-year-old told The Advertiser he was feeling well now, believing having the courage to tell people he was struggling and accept help was the key.
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“I’m going really well at the moment,” Broadbent said.
“I’ve spent a fair bit of time trying to get right, seeing doctors and those sorts of things.
“If there’s any one out there reading this that may feel that way they should speak up, put their hand up and get help.
“That was probably the best thing I did.
“I’ve had some amazing support around me as well.
“I’d especially like to thank (Port Adelaide’s player welfare manager and co-ordinator) John Hinge and Paul Stewart and all my family and friends, as well.”
Broadbent, who played 171 AFL games and booted 52 goals across 11 season with the Power, was one of many high-profile athletes who have taken time out to deal with their demons.
This month Australian cricketer Glenn Maxwell announced he would take an indefinite break from professional cricket to deal with his private struggles.
Then on Thursday, 21-year-old Victorian cricketer Will Pucovski ruled himself out of selection for the first Test against Pakistan for mental health reasons.
Many AFL-listed players, including Sydney star Lance Franklin, have also taken a leave of absence from the game, citing mental health problems.
Western Bulldogs premiership hero Tom Boyd quit AFL after being unable to deal with the mental and physical toll.
Two-times Sturt premiership midfielder and dual Magarey Medallist Zane Kirkwood opened up about his own battles in September and just finished tracking from Perth to Adelaide to raise awareness for mental health.
”In the footy industry, it’s a pretty high-pressure job,” Broadbent said.
“(But) as soon as I put my hand up, it felt like a weight off my shoulders and I could actually deal with it a bit better.
“What Zane has done … is unbelievable.
“I am really proud of the way be is approaching it.”
Broadbent missed the Power’s 2018 campaign after suffering serious foot and ankle injuries.
He made his AFL comeback against the Crows in Showdown 46 before being granted leave to deal with mental health issues.
Despite playing the final six games of the season, the Power axed him last month.
“(Port) probably wanted to get back into the draft and get some more youth going through.
“I guess I had been around long enough to understand that.
“Of course, you’re always going to be disappointed.
“But as soon as the decision was made I was ready to move on to whatever was next in my life.
“I had a great 11 years there and really learned so much and am thankful to the club for having me for so long.”
Broadbent, was selected by the Power with pick No. 38 at the 2008 draft from Woodville-West Torrens, and looked at returning to the Eagles after being cut from Port.
But signed with South because he is mates with coach Jarrad Wright and believes a “fresh challenge” will be good.
“I played a year or two with him (Wright) at the Eagles and he’s a really great bloke.
“I was really impressed with what South had to offer and the direction they are heading in.”
IF YOU NEED HELP
■ For help with emotional difficulties, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or www.lifeline.org.au
■ For help with depression, contact Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 or at www.beyondblue.org.au
■ The SANE Helpline is 1800 18SANE (7263) or at www.sane.org
■ For more information on how to support others who might need help and what warning signs to look for, visit: Conversations Matter.