NRL star Nicho Hynes has voiced a poignant message in the wake of the tragic deaths of former AFL players Troy Selwood and Adam Hunter, who passed away this week. The football community is mourning, as neither death is regarded as suspicious. Hynes, a strong advocate for mental health in sports, emphasised the critical importance of openly discussing mental health issues, stating, “We’ve moved past the idea that men can’t express their feelings.” He highlighted the alarming rates of suicide and the necessity for ongoing support for athletes beyond their sporting careers.
In an interview, Hynes compared addressing mental health to seeking medical care when unwell, insisting that just as physical ailments require treatment, mental health struggles need proper attention and tools to navigate effectively. “Your mental health will deteriorate if you don’t seek help,” he warned.
As an ambassador for the organisation ‘Find ya Feet’, which offers workshops to assist individuals in managing life’s challenges, Hynes is committed to fostering awareness and action around mental wellbeing. The impact of Selwood and Hunter’s deaths serves as a stark reminder of the need for supportive measures within the sporting community. “It’s just really sad to see,” Hynes remarked, reflecting on the families affected. For those in crisis, immediate support is available through Lifeline at 13 11 14.