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'I Take Medications Every Day': When Ben Stokes Opened Up About Mental Health Break

image-lrvp62d3Ben Stokes revelations about mental health (X.COM)

Mental health issues, including anxiety, can affect anyone, regardless of their profession or public persona. England Test captain Ben Stokes had revealed he took anxiety medication every day to help his battle with mental health issues.

Stokes also stepped away from cricket in 2022 to focus on his mental health after enduring a series of panic attacks. Stokes' willingness to share his personal struggles with anxiety and panic attacks in his new documentary film is incredibly brave and important. By opening up about his experiences and the use of anxiety medication, he helps break down barriers and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues, particularly in the realm of professional sports where such discussions have historically been less common.

The support and praise from his close friend Joe Root further emphasized the positive impact of Stokes' revelations. Root's acknowledgment of Stokes's courage and the potential for these revelations to help others highlights the significance of prominent figures in sports speaking openly about mental health. The 32-year-old’s father, died of brain cancer two years ago, and Stokes opted out of his sport for six months as he struggled to come to terms with the loss.


When Ben Stokes talked about his mental health and panic attacks

"I never thought I would be on medication to help me for that kind of stuff. I am not embarrassed or ashamed to say it because I needed the help at the time. But it’s not done just because I’m back playing. I still speak to the doc, not as regularly, and I’m still taking medication every day. It’s an ongoing process.”

Keen to further open the debate about mental health, Stokes allowed himself to be filmed for the documentary even when he was at his lowest ebb.

"I find sometimes people are a bit nervous to go into the detail about that kind of stuff with me. It’s perceived you can’t feel a certain way, that’s a sign of weakness to show that you are not mentally feeling great, people think they can’t ask people who have struggled. No. It’s fine. I’ll happily tell you as much as I possibly can.”

Ben Stokes announced in July 2022, that he would retire from one-day cricket citing the "unsustainable" rigour of playing all three formats of the game.

By sharing his story, Ben Stokes not only raises awareness but also provides hope and encouragement to those who may be facing similar challenges.