EVERTON WINGER AARON Lennon has described the public and private support he has received since he took time away from the game because of mental health problems as ‘incredible.’
The former England international returned to training this week ahead of the new season and released a statement on his social media accounts this evening thanking Everton, football fans, the general public, doctors and hospital staff for their support.
Lennon was detained under the Mental Health Act in April but as he continues on the road to recovery, has used his status as a professional footballer to urge people to seek support if they ‘feel anything out of the ordinary.’
He said: “It’s great to be back after a difficult period. I’ve had a good first week of training and can’t wait to kick on now.
“I want to thank all the staff and patients at The Priory in both Darlington and Altrincham and all the staff at Salford Royal Hospital.
“The support I’ve had from Everton, Spurs, their fans, football fans and concerned members of the general public has been incredible.
“It’s important for me to emphasise that there is amazing help out there and anyone feeling anything out of the ordinary should seek support because it’s great and good to talk.
“Lastly, a special thanks to the staff at Everton, my team-mates, and especially my family and the people around me.”
If you need to talk, contact:
- Pieta House 1800 247 247 or email mary@pieta.ie (suicide, self-harm)
- Bodywhys (01) 283 4963
- Samaritans 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org
- Aware 1800 80 48 48 (depression, anxiety)
- Teen-Line Ireland 1800 833 634 (for ages 13 to 19)
- Childline 1800 66 66 66 (for under 18s)
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