Retired players prone to blues

The true scale of rugby’s mental health crisis can be exposed today as shocking new figures reveal that 62% of retired players have suffered problems since leaving the professional game.

The statistics, compiled by the Rugby Players’ Association (RPA), the English players’ trade union, were Thursday night described as “a major issue” by the head of the international players’ body, while a Labour MP has written to the British Government demanding it does more to help retired professionals.

The RPA’s survey revealed the majority of retired professionals had struggled since leaving the game. The key findings from its research, which was based on approximately 200 retired players, 46% of whom were internationals and 77% of whom either played 100 club matches or were internationals, included: 62% had experienced a mental health issue, 52% did not feel in control of their lives two years after they retired, almost 50% had financial difficulty in the first five years and 46% were unhappy with their preparation for life after sport.

Financial concerns were found to be the biggest contributory factor to mental health difficulties – which were classified as ranging from panic attacks to suicidal thoughts.

Former players were about three times more likely than a member of the public to suffer illnesses such as depression and anxiety.

The findings were greeted with dismay by Omar Hassanein, chief executive of the International Rugby Players’ Association.

“That 62% figure is very alarming,” he said. “That is almost two in three players suffering mental health issues. If that is not a major issue that requires focus then I do not know what is.” Mental health issues have been growing concern for rugby

aunion. A number of high-profile former players have revealed their struggles both while they played and since leaving the sport.

Jonny Wilkinson has spoken about his battle to overcome anxiety during his career and Joe Marler this year retired from England duty because of anxiety caused by being away from his family.

Rugby has a number of structures in place to support players. The RPA has run the “Lift the Weight” campaign to highlight how mental health issues impact on rugby players during all stages of their careers.

In March this year, former sports minister Tracey Crouch unveiled the first Mental Health Action Plan for Elite Sport, and her successor, Mims Davies, says the RPA’s findings demonstrate

Financial concerns were found to be the biggest contributory factor to mental health difficulties

how vital their work is.

“Elite athletes can face huge pressure to succeed and many find it difficult to adjust when their playing days come to an end,” she said.

“We are working alongside sport and mental health organisations to implement our Mental Health Action Plan for Elite Sport and create a stronger industry where sports people are given the support they need.”

The RPA also offers a confidential counselling service, with retired players making up a third of its attendees.

The service is funded entirely by the organisation’s charitable arm, Restart Rugby, and does not receive any direct funding from the RFU or Premiership clubs. –