When Lance Buddy Franklin withdrew from the AFL season ahead of the finals in September, it left Australia shocked – but now the 28-year-old has revealed how he is coping after courageously battling mental illness.
Chatting to Sydney Swans TV Buddy got frank about his recovery, and gave an honest account of the hardships he’s been through.
“I’m feeling good. It’s been a really hard three months for me but I’m feeling happy,” he told the cameras supplied by his own AFL team after it was confirmed he is well enough to return to football for the 2016 season.
“I just got back from a nice holiday overseas, it’s nice to be back in Sydney and I’m looking forward to getting back in training.”
The footy star admitted how glad he was that he put his hand up for help three months ago.
“It was a tough time for myself, leading into the finals I was really struggling and I put my hand up and said I needed help, I’m so glad I did it,” he said.
“I took some time away and it was the best decision I’ve made.”
Buddy and Jesinta became engaged in December 2014.
The Sydneysider was quick to thank his beloved support network too, especially his fiancé Jesinta Campbell.
“I’ve got such a great support network around me in my partner and family and friends, the football club have been terrific in this tough time and I couldn’t be more thankful.”
An insider told Woman’s Day last month that Buddy and Jesinta have postponed their January wedding to focus on the footballers health, despite being “totally devoted and in love.”
The Sydney Swans star also had some advice for those facing their own mental health battles.
“That’s the biggest thing for anyone to do. To put the hand up and go ‘I need the help’. If you are struggling then I definitely recommend that you ask for that help. It’ll change your life.”
If you, or anybody you know is struggling with mental health please call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
