An incredibly brave Bailey Smith has opened up about his personal struggles, revealing he spent a month in a psychiatric ward before his successful move to Geelong. The star midfielder was selected as an All-Australian for the first time on Thursday night, following a spectacular debut season with the Cats.
This achievement comes after a challenging final year with the Western Bulldogs, where Smith faced the dual pressures of rehabilitating an ACL injury and navigating the scrutiny surrounding a potential trade. Speaking candidly at the AFL Awards, Smith shared his journey to recovery, admitting for the first time that he voluntarily sought medical assistance at a Melbourne hospital.
The Road to Recovery
At the AFL Awards, Smith recounted his time spent at Epworth Camberwell, a psychiatric facility in Melbourne. “It was about a year ago I got out of a psych ward – I was in Epworth Camberwell for like four weeks. I got a couple of hours out a day, and I spent that training,” Smith revealed on Fox Footy. “I went through a really dark time.”
Smith’s openness about his mental health struggles marks a significant moment in sports, where discussions around mental health are often stigmatized. “I didn’t think I’d get, I suppose, to the other side,” he admitted, expressing gratitude for the support of his family and manager, Robbie.
A New Perspective on Mental Health
Smith’s experience highlights the importance of mental health care, drawing parallels to physical rehabilitation. “It was hard (going into the psych ward). But it was something I sort of had to do,” Smith explained. “I still see my psych today. It sort of just helps me.”
He continued, “I initially felt, not weak but emasculated a little bit needing to reach out for help. I think I sort of just changed my mindset from, you know, if you have an injury you have to rehab it in the gym or whatever. If you have an injury mentally, it’s just rehabbing it and keeping on top of that.”
“The word gets thrown around a lot these days – mental health. I suppose it’s an excuse in some cases. It’s not a sympathy, ‘poor me’ thing. It’s more to raise awareness you can put your hand up and yeah. It’s a tough period but wouldn’t change it for the world.”
Impact on the AFL Community
Smith’s candidness has sparked conversations within the AFL community about the importance of mental health awareness. His story serves as an inspiration for both young athletes and fans, emphasizing that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
“If we can normalise that (treatment of mental health), the better we can see the community become, both young men and young women,” Smith concluded. “It’s been pretty surreal to be where I am now – there’s so much work to be done. Smell the roses while you can but I’ve just got to keep going.”
Looking Ahead
As Smith continues to excel on the field, his journey off the field offers valuable lessons for the broader community. His story underscores the importance of mental health care and the power of resilience. The AFL community, along with mental health advocates, hopes Smith’s story will encourage others to seek help when needed.
For those in need of support, resources such as beyondblue, Mens Line, and Lifeline offer assistance and guidance. Smith’s journey is a testament to the strength found in vulnerability and the transformative power of seeking help.
If you or someone you know needs help, contact: beyondblue 1300 224 636 or beyondblue.org.au; Mens Line 1300 789 978; Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit lifeline.org.au.
