Former England Footballer Stephen Warnock Opens Up About Mental Health Struggles
admin Former England international Stephen Warnock has bravely shared his battle with mental health issues, revealing that he once contemplated suicide due to financial troubles stemming from poor advice. The 42-year-old, who enjoyed a distinguished career spanning 10 clubs and earned two caps for England before retiring in 2018, opened up about his struggles in a candid interview with Sky Sports.
Warnock disclosed that “ill-advised” financial advice left him feeling depressed and led to suicidal thoughts. “I’d contemplated taking my own life at one stage. I was in so much of a rut,” he said.
The breakdown of Warnock’s marriage coincided with his retirement, exacerbating his already challenging situation. However, the strain of financial difficulties compelled him to prolong his playing career, despite feeling mentally drained and disillusioned with football.
Reflecting on his struggles, Warnock admitted, “Now I look back at it and think ‘Wow, I was massively depressed for years’. I retired at 35. I probably retired mentally at 31.”
However, a chance encounter with an old friend, who was training to become a counselor, marked a turning point for Warnock. Through counseling sessions, he began to confront his issues and gradually found relief from his mental anguish.
Warnock’s friend’s support and guidance helped him regain perspective on his career and life. “It put a positive spin on it, made me realize what I’d achieved in my career,” he remarked. Today, Warnock is grateful for the progress he has made in his mental health journey. “I felt so proud because I knew how much I’d been through. It was one of the best moments of my life,” he shared.
Warnock’s life serves as a prompt for the importance of mental health awareness and seeking support during times of struggle. His openness about his experiences encourages others facing similar challenges to reach out for help.
