Lightning defenseman and captain Victor Hedman released a statement Tuesday, through the Lightning organization, describing his decision to take a personal leave of absence, citing publicly for the first time that it was related to his mental health:
“I’ve spent most of my life in this game, and nearly all of my career with this organization. Wearing this jersey — and serving as captain — is the greatest responsibility of my professional life," Hedman said
“That responsibility doesn’t only apply on the ice. Over the past couple of months, I made the decision to step away and focus on my mental health. It was not an easy decision, but it was the right one.
“I’ve always believed that being a leader means doing what’s best for the team. In this case, it also meant doing what was necessary to take care of myself, so I can be the best player, teammate, husband and father I expect to be," Hedman continued.
“I’ve been fortunate to have strong support from my family, my teammates and the organization, my therapist, and I’m in a much better place today.
“This is something that exists in our game more than people see. If this moment helps make it easier for others to take care of themselves when they need to, that matters.
"I'm proud of this team, and I look forward to what's ahead."
Hedman last played on March 19, leaving after the first period against the Canucks with what the team reported as an illness. On March 26, Hedman announced he would be taking an indefinite personal leave.
My take: Good for him. It's very brave to expose your personal life publicly, doubly so to encourage others who may be struggling. Best to him.
THE ASYLUM
Hedman addressing mental health
Lightning defenseman and captain Victor Hedman released a statement Tuesday, through the Lightning organization, describing his decision to take a personal leave of absence, citing publicly for the first time that it was related to his mental health:
“I’ve spent most of my life in this game, and nearly all of my career with this organization. Wearing this jersey — and serving as captain — is the greatest responsibility of my professional life," Hedman said
“That responsibility doesn’t only apply on the ice. Over the past couple of months, I made the decision to step away and focus on my mental health. It was not an easy decision, but it was the right one.
“I’ve always believed that being a leader means doing what’s best for the team. In this case, it also meant doing what was necessary to take care of myself, so I can be the best player, teammate, husband and father I expect to be," Hedman continued.
“I’ve been fortunate to have strong support from my family, my teammates and the organization, my therapist, and I’m in a much better place today.
“This is something that exists in our game more than people see. If this moment helps make it easier for others to take care of themselves when they need to, that matters.
"I'm proud of this team, and I look forward to what's ahead."
Hedman last played on March 19, leaving after the first period against the Canucks with what the team reported as an illness. On March 26, Hedman announced he would be taking an indefinite personal leave.
My take: Good for him. It's very brave to expose your personal life publicly, doubly so to encourage others who may be struggling. Best to him.
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