Fremantle midfielder Nathan O’Driscoll has spoken publicly about his mental health struggles, revealing that he has experienced suicidal thoughts. The 23-year-old took to Instagram to share an unfiltered account of his challenges, including the recent death of someone close to him, which has made the past few weeks particularly difficult.
O’Driscoll, who has played only twice this season for the Dockers, said: “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.” He added that he was initially hesitant to share his story but felt it was the right time given the league’s recent focus on mental health.
The post prompted an outpouring of support from family and teammates. His sister Emma, who plays for Fremantle in the AFLW, said she was proud of him “as a person first, always”. His younger brother Aiden, a former Western Bulldogs draftee who medically retired due to a head injury, called him “the best big brother anyone could ask for”. Dockers teammates including Caleb Serong, Murphy Reid and captain Alex Pearce also offered their support.
Fremantle’s executive general manager, Joe Brierty, said the club was proud of O’Driscoll for speaking openly. “This is a struggle many in our society deal with daily, and often silently,” he said. The club will continue to provide support to the midfielder, who expressed gratitude for those around him and urged others to reach out if struggling.
O’Driscoll’s revelation comes amid growing calls for a mental health round in the AFL, following Carlton player Elijah Hollands’ hospital admission last week after a mental health episode during a match. O’Driscoll said he has experienced both “incredible highs” and “very low moments” in his four-year career, and emphasised the importance of valuing oneself.
