Harry McKay Opens Up on Mental Health Struggles Ahead of AFL Return

The Carlton star forward reveals his battle with mental health and reflects on the support that enabled his recovery as he prepares for the Gather Round clash with West Coast Eagles.

• Harry McKay disclosed that his mental health challenges began in late February, despite feeling his personal and professional life was in a good place.
• The Carlton forward took a three-week leave from AFL to prioritize his wellbeing, missing matches against Hawthorn, Western Bulldogs, and Collingwood.
• McKay described the difficulty of masking his struggles, saying he felt compelled to put on a facade while internally grappling with worsening distress.
• After seeking help, McKay received overwhelming support from his family, teammates, and the football community, which he said was instrumental in his recovery.
• Having played in a VFL match last weekend, McKay is now set to return to senior AFL competition in the Gather Round game against West Coast Eagles at Adelaide Oval.

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Australian Broadcasting Corporation ESPN The Sydney Morning Herald