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I commend the Geelong football club for the way they have handled Mitch Clark’s health issue. For too long now we have failed to understand depression, and its effects on the individual.
The image of Mitch on Friday night after the Cats beat Collingwood was sad and moving. Mitch had an emotional attack, he became upset and didn’t sing the club song. He was escorted away into another room by coach Chris Scott.
Mitch needed help then and there, and he received it.
But he has received even more help from the club since Friday night, a club that cares and will rally around him.
Depression can manifest itself in so many ways. A lack of confidence, a lack of energy. Depression makes your paranoid, which makes you tired again. Depression doesn’t allow you to argue your case, because depression is telling you that you are not worthy. It is all-consuming, yet illusive. It creeps up on you just as things are going well, and strikes a bitter blow. Depression leads people to drink and drugs, and drink and drugs lead to more depression.
Depression can effect the rich and the poor, it isn’t prejudiced when it comes to race or creed. Depression doesn’t wear a watch, it has no timetable.
Mitch and many of us are paddling hard in order to escape the black dog, some make it safely to shore, others continue to swirl in the mirky waters.
A healthy lifestyle, loving family and friends, and the right treatment will help stem the dark flow. But in my view one of the key factors that will help sufferers recover is understanding.
The more others understand and don’t judge, the more comfortable people who suffer depression feel.
Geelong understands.
The Cats are forming a giant circle around Mitch and they’re saying, “We will protect you help you and guide you through this tough time.”
Like racism on the field, another player having a crack at someone like Mitch during a game is inexcusable.
All sporting clubs must take the lead from Geelong and make sure officials and coaches learn to identify the signs, particularly as some are difficult to detect.
Business must do the same. Look after staff as if they are their own children. Nurture them, love them, and constantly monitor them for any wayward signs.
The schools are moving quickly on the issue. Only last week Beyond Blue launched an online program offering tools to help staff tackle mental health concerns among students who may be suffering from depression. The program, called MindMatters, will be made available to 1,500 schools over the next three years.
This program would suit sporting clubs and businesses.
Mitch we hear you and understand you, and we’re all thinking of you. Good luck.
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