Fremantle Dockers player Nathan O'Driscoll has opened up about his struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts in a candid social media post, as calls intensify for the AFL to introduce a dedicated mental health round.
O'Driscoll's Brave Revelation
The 23-year-old midfielder, who has played only twice this season for his hometown club, shared on Instagram that he has come close to taking his own life on three occasions. He revealed that recent weeks have been particularly challenging following the death of someone close to him.
In his post, O'Driscoll wrote: “I’m sharing this because speaking up matters. No one is there to judge you, every person I’ve opened up to has supported me in ways I never expected.” He added: “From the outside, it might look like I have everything, but what’s going on internally can be a very different story. Everyone is dealing with something, and it’s okay to not be okay.”
Outpouring of Support
The post triggered an immediate wave of support from family, teammates, and fans. His older sister Emma, who plays for the Dockers in the AFLW, expressed pride in him “as a person first, always” and emphasised that they are there to support him and encourage others to speak up.
His younger brother Aiden, who was drafted to the Western Bulldogs but medically retired due to a head injury, called O'Driscoll “the best big brother anyone could ask for.” Dockers teammates including Caleb Serong, Murphy Reid, and captain Alex Pearce also offered their support.
Club and League Context
Fremantle have surged to a 6-1 record this season, winning six consecutive matches. O'Driscoll has not played since being omitted for the round three clash against Richmond. He admitted initial hesitation about sharing his story but felt it was the right time given “the recent focus on mental health around the league.”
This comes after Carlton player Elijah Hollands was hospitalised last week following a mental health episode during a match against Collingwood, fuelling growing calls for an AFL mental health round.
O'Driscoll's Personal Journey
Reflecting on his four-year career, O'Driscoll described experiencing both “incredible highs” and “some very low moments.” He revealed struggles with anxiety and “a constant need to feel like I belong, and always putting others before myself.” He emphasised the importance of self-care: “Valuing yourself is just as important as valuing others.”
Club Statement and Ongoing Support
Fremantle executive general manager Joe Brierty said the club was proud of O'Driscoll “for speaking so openly” about his mental health, noting that this struggle is common in society and often endured silently. The club will continue to provide support to the midfielder.
O'Driscoll expressed gratitude for those around him, stating: “There is so much good in this world. Whatever you’re going through, it will get better. Reach out, stay connected, and be kind to yourself.”
In Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline is 13 11 14. In the UK and Ireland, Samaritans can be contacted on freephone 116 123, or email jo@samaritans.org or jo@samaritans.ie. In the US, you can call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. Other international helplines can be found at befrienders.org.
