Does it really matter who wins trophies when an increasing number of players are struggling to manage with the intense mental strain of professional sport?The end of the domestic season is looming but,in many ways, a more critical debate is only just beginning in earnest. Does it really matter who wins trophies when an increasing number of players are struggling to manage with the intense mental strain of professional sport? Rugby union is not alone in having participants who suffer from depression but to what extent, or whether any,is the game itself to blame for the apparent rise in unhappiness?The testimonies of the former Scotland international Rory Lamont and the England prop Joe Marler in the Sunday Times over the weekend were striking. Lamont, in a particularly brave statement, and admitted to having suicidal thoughts since retiring through injury in 2013. “You’re thinking: I don’t want to live like this. I’d rather die. possibly whether I’m lucky I’ll get struck by lightning or step in front of a bus.’ Coming out of rugby,my world pretty much collapsed.”Continue reading...
Source: theguardian.com