Ama Agbeze was back on court yesterday in the Vitality Netball Superleague with her new team, Severn Stars, in the season opener.
Photo credit: Geoff Pugh
In an interview published by The Telegraph, Former England Captain Ama Agbeze reveals the extent of her mental health struggles following the announcement of the World Cup Squad last year that saw her missing out on selection.
In 2018, Ama captained the Roses to a historic Commonwealth Games Gold Medal on the Gold Coast but having scooped various accolades since with the team, including the prestigious BBC SPOTY Team of the Year Award, Ama found herself missing out on a place in the Roses squad to represent England at a home World Cup last summer in Liverpool.
The decision by then head coach, Tracey Neville, in what turned out to be her last competition in charge following her announcement that she was stepping down in pursuit of a family, was a particularly tough one for Ama who admitted that "at times it has been a struggle just getting up every day".
Not closing the door on an International return, Ama admits that she is still struggling now and talks of the importance of talking to someone and asking for help. At a time when the conversation about mental health has really hit the headlines following the death of TV Presenter, Caroline Flack, it is a poignant reminder of the importance of taking care of one another. Openness to talk can really help, not only the person suffering, but also others that might be suffering in silence.
Athlete health and well being is of prime importance to the NPA. We can provide confidential support for any player concerns, whether its due to an injury, contractual uncertainty, selection, stress, transition, or another area of your life. We support players in need through connecting you with skilled counsellors, lifestyle advisors and sports psychologists.
If you or someone you know is struggling, the NPA is here to offer support, please don't hesitate to get in touch.
The following organisations also offer free and confidential support over the phone:
Samaritans - 116 123. Round the clock support, every day of the year |samaritans.org
Mind - 0300 123 3393, 9am - 6pm, Mon - Fri (except Bank Holidays). Advises on a range of mental health issues | mind.org.uk
Young Minds - 0808 802 5544, 9.30am - 4pm, Mon - Fri. Supports parents and carers worried about a child’s welfare | youngminds.org.uk
The Mix - 0808 808 4994, 2pm - 11pm, Mon - Sun. Helpline for people under the age of 25 | themix.org.uk
For more helplines and mental health resources, see the NHS on stress, anxiety and depression