A SHIFT in the culture at football clubs is allowing players to open up about their mental health issues according to St Kilda’s Alan Richardson.
The Saints coach’s comments follow the recent announcement Collingwood star Dayne Beams is stepping away from football indefinitely to address mental health concerns.
Richardson says while a shift in culture is key, the need for clubs to offer greater support in handling these issues is also supported by the AFL itself.
Alan Richardson and Jack Steven embrace after the Saints round two win over Essendon. Picture: AFL Photos
"The footy club is a safe place to say that 'I'm struggling mentally' and not feel like people look at you strangely or that you're weak," Richardson said on Thursday.
"The AFL are very aware of the fact that there seems to be an increase (in player mental health issues) … what is pleasing is players like Dayne (Beams) and Jack (Steven) for us are able to put their hand up."
Saints star Steven has only recently returned to training after taking time to deal with mental health issues.
FULL INJURY LIST Who's ruled out and who's a test?
"The AFL, when they meet with us as a coaching group, are always asking about 'what can we do'," Richardson said.
"There's some funding that will sit outside the soft cap that (the League is) going to commit to footy clubs ... to make sure that we can be stronger to support our players.
"We were really strong in terms of supporting Jack and we'll continue to do that. We wish Dayne the best and we know that the Collingwood footy club will be brilliant in terms of supporting him."
