News Former Cat opens up on depression.

[winty]

FORMER Geelong midfielder Simon Hogan has revealed the extent of his struggle with depression, which resulted in him quitting elite football.

Hogan, who played 22 games for the Cats between 2009 and 2011, has spoken about his illness in an AFL Media-produced video titled The Elephant In The Room.

"I was stuck in my own thoughts and was just so frustrated that this had happened to me," the 25-year-old says in the video, which will be used to educate young players about mental illness.

"I felt really lost, and I guess I just couldn't see the end of the tunnel. I couldn't see a way to get out of this wreck that I was in.

http://www.afl.com.au/news/2014-02-25/cats-struggle-with-a-black-dog

Brave move by Hogan to come out and speak openly about what he had gone through.

 

[goyoucatters]

Another one of the quality people we've had in the hoops in recent years. He speaks so candidly and articulately about the struggles he's had.

It was a shame to see him quit the game but it's great to hear that the decision has positively enhanced his health.

And I still smile when I think that he got to go out as part of a premiership unit. Life is certainly way more than footy but it must have been a satisfying moment to go out as a key member of a winning team.

Wishing you every success in the future, Simon.

 

[bananatigz]

Really enjoyed it, kudos too him

 

[Bobby_]

I didn't realize he was in that bad a shape. Such a young bloke to be dealing with mental issues of that magnitude while trying to tick all the boxes in his footy career every week....must have be completely drained all the time.

 

[AM]

Absolutely fantastic to read that Simon is so much better.

 

[vinum coupe]

He has told this before.
At least 2 years ago.

 

[AM]

Re-read the story. There is quite a lot in it that could not have been told two years ago.

btw. Great to see him selected in the VAFA rep squad.