It is important to remember that an athlete’s mental state plays a significant role in their overall function and that individualised support and solutions are essential for success.

“As a rugby player, I was always taught to never show weakness as your opponents will exploit it. The problem was I took this attitude into everyday life.... I want to tell men it is not a weakness asking for help."

Athletes are no longer passive participants; they are the CEOs of their careers. This perspective shift demands that athletes take proactive control, understanding each element of their support system.

It's important to remember that you are not just your sport, you are so much more... seek advice from people, about navigating sport and life, who have been through it already.

When competing at a high level in sport, there's an urgent need to also support athletes to understand and prioritise their mental health and to really take time to take care of it.

As a community, we must continue to innovate and motivate, empowering athletes to make informed choices and encouraging them to take responsibility and initiative.

Many young athletes struggle with the mental side of performing... it’s important that the tools given to train their physical ability are equalled with those given to train their mental ability.

From an athlete’s perspective, it’s very alien to ask for help. But the only way to continue to grow is by asking for help... it is the first step towards a successful transition.