RICHMOND recruit Chris Yarran will take indefinite leave from the club as he seeks treatment for a mental health condition.
The half-back, who had been in Western Australia last week for personal reasons, has no timeframe for a return to the club.
Richmond released a statement on Thursday morning saying both Yarran and the Tigers' health and welfare staff felt it was in his best interests to seek professional treatment away from the club.
Coach Damien Hardwick said the 25-year-old would be granted as long as he needed to make a full recovery.
"Chris's health and wellbeing is of the utmost importance to us and there's no timeframe on his return at this stage," he said.
"He's a great young fella and we wish him the best.
"His health and wellbeing is No.1 for us and however long that takes, that's up to Chris and his practitioners.
"He's a star … we can't wait to have him back and he's an important part of our future."
Yarran is yet to debut for Richmond after crossing from Carlton in last year's trade period in exchange for pick No.19, a selection the Blues used to draft David Cuningham.
The speedster returned to pre-season training in poor condition and was initially troubled by a nagging calf injury.
After making a late bid to be right for round one, he broke down with a left foot injury that required surgery in March to repair the plantar fascia tissue.
Yarran now seems a long shot to play a game in his first season at Richmond.
If you or someone you know suffers from depression or a mental health issue, call beyondblue on 1300 224 636 or visit beyondblue.org.au
