Vulnerability as a sign of strength

“In the early stage of my career it was, you don’t show any vulnerability, you don’t show any pain, you just get on with things.

At first, it didn’t feel like a pressure because it was so normal, particularly being from Huddersfield, the working class background, where men are brought up as men, and any sign of vulnerability is a ‘weakness’.

I experienced a severe period of depression just over halfway through my career. I think, looking back, I’d probably been depressed several times before, but I just didn’t really know, or I didn’t really understand. But this time was a bit different."

Ex-professional rugby player, Kearnan Myall, opens up about his own mental health struggles both on and off the pitch. And how by understanding his own mental health he’s now at a place where he really enjoys life.

“If you are struggling, then don’t be afraid to have that conversation with somebody who’s close to you, don’t be afraid to show a bit of vulnerability, because showing vulnerability can be a really huge sign of strength.”