In a courageous move, Northern Ireland footballer Rachel Furness has spoken publicly about her struggles with mental health, revealing that she was forced to take a break from the sport due to the overwhelming pressure and stress she was experiencing.
The 32-year-old midfielder, who has played for the Northern Ireland national team since 2011, has been an inspiration to many with her determination and passion for the game. However, behind the scenes, Furness was struggling to cope with the demands of professional football, which ultimately led to her decision to take a break from the sport.
In an exclusive interview with the BBC, Furness opened up about her mental health struggles, saying: "I was feeling really overwhelmed and stressed, and I didn't know how to cope with it. I was trying to push through, but it was affecting my performance on the pitch and my overall well-being."
Furness's decision to speak out about her mental health is a significant step forward in breaking down the stigma surrounding mental illness. By sharing her story, she hopes to inspire others to do the same and to show that mental health is just as important as physical health.
"I want to encourage people to talk about their mental health," Furness said. "It's okay to not be okay, and it's okay to ask for help. I'm not ashamed to say that I struggled, and I hope that by sharing my story, I can help others feel more comfortable opening up about their own struggles."
Furness's bravery in speaking out about her mental health is a testament to her strength and resilience. Her decision to take a break from football was not an easy one, but it was necessary for her well-being.
"I know that I'm not alone in this," Furness said. "There are so many people out there who are struggling with their mental health, and I want to let them know that they're not alone. We need to create a culture where people feel comfortable talking about their mental health, and where they're supported and encouraged to do so."
Furness's story is a powerful reminder that mental health is just as important as physical health, and that it's okay to ask for help when you need it. Her courage in speaking out about her struggles is an inspiration to us all, and we hope that her story will help to break down the stigma surrounding mental illness.
