Professional Football’s Impact on Mental Health - Joe Maguire

Former Liverpool Footballer, Joe Maguire, lifts the lid on his battle with mental health over the last few years in professional football. We delve into Joe’s story starting with his time at Liverpool FC, where he learned under both Brendan Rodgers and Jurgen Klopp. Both brilliant managers seemed to create an environment that allowed players to be authentically themselves and feel appreciated, understood and part of a family. This approach to the team environment changed drastically as Joe discussed his moves to Fleetwood, Accrington and Tranmere where he found it difficult to deal with the changes in level, perspective on football and how he was treated. This led to a difficult time for Joe as his battle with mental grew prominent and eventually meant he took action. Since starting therapy and talking openly about his mental health, Joe has new perspectives, found acceptance and learned to cope and manage the ups and downs of professional football and life. An honest conversation with a creative, brave man who is open to learning all he can about himself on and off the pitch. 

Support for professional footballers: 

https://www.thepfa.com/players/wellbeing

If you feel like you are finding it difficult and need someone to talk to:

https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/