Number of footballers seeking counselling has trebled in 2017, say PFA
Monday 8 May 2017 21:44, UK
The number of players seeking counselling for mental health problems has trebled in 2017, according to new figures released by the Professional Footballers' Association.
Last week, it emerged Everton winger Aaron Lennon was receiving treatment for a stress-related illness after being detained under the Mental Health Act and he is part of an increasing number of players seeking help.
So far in 2017, the PFA's network of counsellors has helped 178 members, more than triple the rate for 2016 when 655 sessions were delivered to 160 current and former players.
The PFA's head of welfare Michael Bennett believes this is a result of clubs and players becoming more aware of the union's expertise in this area and a more general willingness across society to discuss mental-health issues.
"I think the issue has always been there but we are raising awareness now and more and more people are coming forward," Bennett told Sky Sports News HQ.
"I think people think that because they play football they should not have any problems but I always say they are a person that is playing football so they will encounter any issue a normal person will encounter.
"Just because they play football does not mean they are immune to it."
