Richarlison, the Brazilian and Tottenham forward, recently opened up about his battle with depression following the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Despite finishing as Brazil’s leading scorer in the tournament, Richarlison revealed that he was plagued by troubling thoughts and was on the brink of giving up. He admitted to seeking psychological help after the tournament, describing it as the best discovery he’s ever made in his life.
The pressure of representing Brazil on the world stage, particularly as the country’s No. 9, weighed heavily on Richarlison. He described Brazil’s elimination from the World Cup quarterfinals as a devastating blow, equating it to a loss of a family member. Additionally, he faced turbulence off the field, including a financial dispute that led to parting ways with his long-term agent, Renato Velasco. These challenges contributed to a downward spiral of depression and a feeling of wanting to give up.
Richarlison reflected on the dark period post-World Cup, admitting to being in a state of depression where he sought solace in negative thoughts about death. However, the turning point came when he decided to seek help from a therapist. He emphasized the crucial role that therapy played in saving his life, allowing him to see beyond the darkness and find hope. Richarlison encouraged others to seek help and break the stigma surrounding mental health support, acknowledging that it can truly save lives.
Despite initial reservations and prejudices about therapy within his own family, Richarlison expressed gratitude for the positive impact it had on his life. He recognized the importance of opening up and sharing one’s struggles with a professional, emphasizing the profound effect it can have on mental well-being. By sharing his story, Richarlison hopes to inspire others to prioritize their mental health and seek help when needed, highlighting the significance of therapy in overcoming internal battles.
Following his transfer to Tottenham from Everton and his experiences with depression, Richarlison remains a prominent figure in the world of football. With 48 caps for Brazil, he continues to make strides in his career while advocating for mental health awareness. Despite facing challenges and setbacks, Richarlison’s journey serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing mental well-being and seeking support during difficult times.
Richarlison’s candid revelation about his battle with depression sheds light on the mental health challenges athletes face behind the scenes. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the significance of seeking help and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health struggles. As Richarlison continues his journey, both on and off the field, his advocacy for mental health awareness remains a vital part of his legacy.