Greg Inglis is shifting the narrative around mental health in sports by sharing his personal struggles, aiming to save lives through increased awareness. The former rugby league star is spearheading the “Stick With It” campaign through his Goanna Academy, which seeks to engage some of the biggest names in the game to support suicide prevention during round 22 of the NRL season. This initiative uses specially branded sports strapping tape as a conversation starter about mental health, encouraging athletes and fans alike to seek help.
Inglis, known for his impressive career at the National Rugby League (NRL), State of Origin, and Test levels, has become more open about his battles with mental health. He stated, “When I go out and share my story, it’s open, it’s honest, it’s real, it’s raw.” Through his honesty, Inglis hopes to connect with others facing similar challenges, emphasizing that he is just “another human being, a normal person.”
After retiring from professional rugby, Inglis was diagnosed with anxiety, depression, and bipolar II disorder. His journey took a troubling turn as he struggled to cope, turning to alcohol and prescription drugs. “Before I knew it, I was lost for five days,” he recalled. His family and friends spent that time searching for him in hospitals and police stations, highlighting the severity of his situation. He described days where he found it difficult to even get out of bed, reflecting on a profound sense of despair.
Following this period, Inglis took significant steps towards recovery, detoxing at home for two weeks before entering a rehabilitation facility for three weeks. While his mental health challenges intensified after his playing career, he noted that these issues were not entirely absent during his time as an athlete.
Inglis faced a public setback when he was stripped of his position as captain of the Kangaroos due to a drink-driving incident. He took full responsibility for this mistake, acknowledging it as a reflection of his struggles at that time. “It was a massive honour, and they made the right decision,” Inglis said, accepting accountability for his actions.
Inglis now recognizes the importance of addressing mental health openly and encourages others to seek help. Suicide is the leading cause of death for Australians aged 15 to 44, with rates notably higher in Indigenous and remote communities. “I want to reduce the suicide rate within Australia because it’s four times the rate of the road toll,” he stated, urging people to access mental health services.
The “Stick With It” campaign symbolizes resilience, using sports strapping tape to highlight the importance of discussing mental health. Inglis explained, “If you go to a doctor and you go see something fixed, they put a bandage on it or they put something around it so people can talk about it.” He believes that athletes can play a significant role in promoting mental health awareness through their platforms.
Despite having a substantial following of nearly 260,000 on Instagram, Inglis has stepped back from social media, opting to have his business managers curate content on his behalf. “I don’t need that in my life right now,” he remarked, stressing the importance of being mindful of the messages shared online.
Inglis’s candid approach to discussing mental health resonates in a society where such conversations are crucial. Through the “Stick With It” campaign, he aims not only to raise awareness but also to foster a culture of openness and support for those struggling with mental health issues.
For anyone in need of help, resources such as Lifeline (13 11 14) and Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) are available to provide support and guidance. The NRL continues to broadcast live on Channel 9 and 9Now, keeping fans engaged with the sport while promoting vital social issues.
