The Australian Psychological Society (APS) has congratulated the AFL on its plans to appoint a mental health manager to support clubs working with player mental health issues.
APS CEO Frances Mirabelli said the AFL’s acknowledgement that mental health is the biggest issue in AFL football is significant, not only for players but the wider community.
“The AFL is not just a leader in football, but a role model in the community,” said Ms Mirabelli.
“Taking the lead to talk about mental health issues and getting players the support they need sends a strong message to the Australian community that it’s okay to seek help for mental health concerns.”
Ms Mirabelli said the APS stood by its call for the AFL to appoint mental health professionals to each football club to ensure the wellbeing of players both on and off the field.
For more information, or to arrange an interview call the APS Media team on 03 8662 3358 / 0435 896 444, or email. Find the APS Media team on Twitter: @AustPsych
The APS is the largest professional organisation for psychologists in Australia, representing more than 27,000 members. The APS is committed to advancing psychology as a discipline and profession. It spreads the message that psychologists make a difference to people’s lives, through improving psychological knowledge and community wellbeing.