Former footballer Alan Stringer calls for mates to ask the question and look after each other on R U OK? Day
After battling mental illness for 15 years, former star footballer Alan Stringer calls on people to help each other by asking one important question.
SA News
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Alan Stringer is pleading with people to check on their mates and work colleagues for R U OK Day, after losing his friend, St Kilda legend Danny Frawley, on Monday.
Frawley had a well-documented battled with depression and died a day after his 56th birthday.
Stringer said he’s been rocked by his passing.
“This is a serious disease that those who have been afflicted by it have to manage every day,’’ he said.
Stringer, a former SANFL football star, has had a 15-year battle with mental illness and speaks openly about his trials and tribulations to South Australian football and sporting clubs in a bid to raise awareness and to encourage people to get support. His first speaking engagement was with Frawley in Clare, last November.
Stringer said he feared where he would’ve been if he hadn’t sought support for his depression and anxiety, which he has suffered since 2004.
It’s why he’s thrown his support behind the national R U OK Day, today.
“Asking the question could save a life,’’ he said.
“Most people won’t come forward with their problems until they are asked the question, so we need more people to speak up, to check on their mates, because it is just so important in today’s society.
“Reach out, don’t be afraid to ask about their mate’s welfare and if there is a problem, don’t be judgmental, listen straight away.
“Don’t say you haven't got time and put if off until the next day, because by then it might be too late.’’