Leon Mckenzie
On Being Human
In the world of sports, athletes are often celebrated for their physical prowess and achievements on the field. However, behind the scenes, many face battles that go unnoticed, particularly in the realm of mental health. Leon Mckenzie is a former professional footballer and boxer turned mental health advocate. I had the pleasure of sitting with Leon, who openly shared his experiences and struggles with his mind.
Leon Mckenzie, once a prominent figure in the football world, soared to success with his incredible skills and goal-scoring prowess. His journey took him through various clubs, including Crystal Palace, Norwich City, and Charlton Athletic, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. As fans cheered for his triumphs, little did they know about the personal struggles that were brewing beneath the surface.
Leon said, “My initial struggles started with my injuries; my body was giving up on me, and that was hard, not being able to play.” It was even harder having to accept that my career could be over; I still had so much to give and achieve; it was the ultimate low.
At the same time, my relationships were suffering, and my off-field habits weren’t helping. I didn’t do drugs and alcohol, but I wasn’t managing my finances very well. Everything around me was collapsing, and I wanted to check out. I came very close to ending it when I tried to commit suicide. When I woke up in the hospital, I made a phone call to my dad, asking for help. I was feeling awful and guilty about the thought of what it would have done to my family and kids if I had been successful in my attempt. I would have left more pain behind compared to the pain I would have taken with me. They are my strength, hope, and reason to keep going despite life’s difficulties.
Leon’s Mckenzie also explained how his childhood traumas cast a shadow over his life, “The emotional scars, though hidden beneath a strong persona, impacted my thinking, self-esteem, and overall well-being. These painful moments reverberated through my adult life and influenced my behaviour. Many of the things I had to witness were very disturbing, and on reflection, it’s no surprise my relationships were adversely affected.”
The Turning Point of Leon’s journey took a significant turn when he found the courage to confront his mental health challenges head-on. Battling depression and anxiety, he reached out for support and sought
professional help. His decision to speak openly about his struggles marked a pivotal moment not only in his life but also in the broader conversation around mental health in sports. He said, “First, you must accept your struggle and not be too hard on yourself.
During my darkest hour, I didn’t like myself and, worse, felt guilty for how I felt. My advice to anyone suffering from mental health is to take small steps; there is no right or wrong way; you have to make a choice that you want to get better and be willing to do whatever it takes. We can train our minds to think differently; you must hold onto hope and have faith in yourself. It does get better. I still have bad days, but I now know it is a temporary feeling that will change.”
Determined to make a difference, Leon Mckenzie transitioned from the football pitch to the forefront of mental health advocacy. Using his own experiences as a platform, he has become a vocal advocate for mental health awareness, encouraging others to break the silence surrounding their struggles.
Through interviews, public appearances, and social media, Mckenzie has worked tirelessly to dismantle the stigma and develop a culture of openness within the sporting community.
Today, he mentors the U18s at Crystal Palace about mental health. “I was probably one of the first players to come out and speak about my challenges. To help someone through dark times, you must know how to walk in the dark.”
“I have been through it all; what
I do today is my calling. I want to help as many people as possible by sharing my story. Life is a journey to embrace and accept the rough with the smooth. Surround yourself with love, and create a circle of supportive souls. Don’t take life for granted. I had everything, then I lost it all. Status, money, and ego are all transient. You have to look beyond these things to find yourself, the true self. Life is a blessing you can enjoy irrespective of what is happening.”
What is even more remarkable about Leon’s journey is his resilience and determination; after football and all the personal struggles, he found renewed purpose in boxing, ultimately achieving unprecedented success
at age 35. Struggling with his mental health after retiring from a successful football career, he sought a new outlet for his passion and competitiveness. Turning to the discipline and physicality of boxing, he discovered a therapeutic release that not only revitalised his mental well-being but also ignited a latent fire within him.
Despite the odds stacked against him as an older contender in a physically demanding sport, he dedicated himself to rigorous training and relentless perseverance. At 35, against all expectations, he clinched titles, proving that the strength of the human spirit knows no age limits.
Leon Mckenzie’s story serves as an inspiration to us all. He has empowered others to seek help and prioritise their mental well-being by sharing his journey. In a world where perfection is often portrayed, Mckenzie’s honesty has sparked meaningful conversations about the importance of mental health support in football and beyond.
Leon’s resilience in the face of mental health challenges has transformed him from a sports superstar to a human superstar. His journey reminds us all that strength comes in many forms, and true courage lies in confronting and overcoming our inner battles.
As the conversation around mental health continues to evolve, Leon Mckenzie stands as a testament to the power of vulnerability and the potential for positive change for anyone who is struggling to cope.
Thank you Leon.
Rany Athwall