Keegan Hipgrave

It is not uncommon for professional athletes to experience mental health and wellbeing challenges as a result of the pressure and demands of their careers.

Having both seen and experienced these challenges first hand, I have been speaking openly and honestly about the importance of mental health over my eight year NRL career.

This has included the work that I have done with the Movember Foundation, where l've been an ambassador for this organisation for the last seven years and has used this role to host events, raise awareness for and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues.

By sharing these experiences, athletes can help others understand that mental health issues are common and can affect anyone, including those who are successful and seemingly have it all together.

Additionally, it can help others who may be struggling with similar issues to know that they are not alone and that seeking help is a brave and necessary step towards recovery.