Depression is a monster that can stop you getting out of the house

EXCLUSIVE particular, avoid talking about it or do their best not to make it obvious.

“But having been on that learning curve since I launched Mantality, I’ve not fallen back into a depressive state. I have a resilience about me now, so things are good and I know I can not only help myself but other people too.

“My twin sister Rachel is a really big supporter of what I do and I can give her a text or a ring if I’m not feeling too great. It’s a special relationship.”

Ward’s story has attracted support from other high-profile sports stars and even celebrities such as Boy George.

Earlier this month, Ward and Prince Harry were guest speakers at charity event Leeds Leads: Encouraging Happy Young Minds.

Prince Harry talked earlier this year about the turmoil he endured while trying to come to terms with the death of his mother, Diana, Princess of Wales.

Ward said: “Speaking at that event was the culmination of a lot of hard work I’ve done to raise awareness of mental health.

“It was a real honour something I’m glad I had opportunity to do.

“For Prince Harry to come from his position and talk about his own battles with mental health was invaluable.

“It was great to speak to about his own experiences about rugby too.

“His mission has been to remove the stigma and he has done that.

“For me to also be involved with that and have a positive impact on it was brilliant.

“I’m sure there is a lot more we can do together in the future because that common bond is a very strong one, which can make a big difference.”

Healthy in body and mind and still on England boss Wayne Bennett’s radar, Ward will aim to help Leeds reach Wembley.

“I grew up watching Leeds as a kid in the South Stand at Headingley, so sometimes you’ve got to wake up to the fact that you’re living your dream,” he said.

“Now I just enjoy the ride rather than getting my hopes up too much about having to have success all the time.

“There is still a lot more to come from me because I’m only 23 and I’ve always had the belief and drive that I can be part of a Leeds team who win something this year.”

WIGAN will face Hull in Australia on February 10, 2018 in the first Super League game to be played outside Europe.

Seven days later, Wigan will face South Sydney Rabbitohs and Hull will take on St George Illawarra in Sydney. and the him and