Baby steps in mental health for rugby league

May 6, 2021

Baby steps in mental health for rugby league

Greg Whaiapu. Photo: supplied

Efforts are being made to prioritise the mental health of rugby league players in Auckland.

The chief executive of Auckland Rugby League says players are feeling stigmatised for speaking up about mental wellbeing.

Greg Whaiapu says more conversations are being had around mental-health issues and despite the stigma issues, there is great awareness among teenagers and adult players.

“We do have some people coming forward, but then again the opposite can be said, where we didn’t find out until its too late.”

To combat this, Auckland Rugby League has connected with support groups Le Va and It’s Not Ok to help staff and players talk about suicide prevention and mental health.

Otangarei Knights Chairman Phillip Burt says that these discussions help create a safe space for young league players to talk about mental health.

“I think it's about messaging, persistent messaging. It’s about providing a good safe environment, good support systems around family clubs,” says Mr Burt.

Mr Whaiapu says these conversations are vital in preventing players from slipping through the cracks.

“Our clubs are an extension of our whānau," he says.

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Need to talk? Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor.

Lifeline – 0800 543 354 (0800 LIFELINE) or free text 4357 (HELP).

Suicide Crisis Helpline – 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO).

Healthline – 0800 611 116

Samaritans – 0800 726 666

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