In a raw and emotional revelation, Carlton Blues star Sam Docherty has shared how the tragic death of his father plunged him into a destructive gambling addiction that nearly derailed his career and personal life.
The Trigger Point
The AFL defender confessed that his father's passing created an emotional void he attempted to fill through compulsive betting. "It became my coping mechanism," Docherty revealed, describing how what began as occasional gambling rapidly escalated into a full-blown addiction that consumed his thoughts and finances.
The Downward Spiral
Docherty detailed how his gambling habits intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns, when isolation and increased free time created the perfect storm for his addiction to flourish. The Carlton star found himself trapped in a cycle of betting that provided temporary escape from his grief but ultimately compounded his struggles.
The Road to Recovery
Through professional support and personal determination, Docherty began his journey toward recovery. He emphasizes the importance of seeking help and breaking the stigma surrounding gambling addiction in professional sports. "Recognizing the problem was the first step toward reclaiming control," he stated.
Advocacy and Awareness
Now using his platform to raise awareness, Docherty hopes his story will encourage others facing similar battles to seek assistance. He's become a vocal advocate for mental health support in the AFL community and beyond, stressing that addiction doesn't discriminate based on career success or public profile.
The Carlton star's courageous disclosure highlights the complex relationship between grief, mental health, and addictive behaviours in high-pressure sporting environments.
