Players' union chief Gordon Taylor has highlighted the help available to footballers following revelations about Clarke Carlisle's latest battle with depression, reports Sky Sports. Former Watford and Burnley defender Carlisle has disclosed that the serious injuries he suffered after being hit by a lorry in December were the result of a suicide attempt.
Taylor said: "Mental welfare and depression is something we have been quite concerned about for a number of years now and have acted on it, along with many other sporting organisations.
"This can be something that can affect all people in all walks of life but in sport as well. There have been a number of high-profile cases that everyone will be aware of.
"We have approximately 30 counsellors who are available 24 hours to talk to any of our members, past and present, with such problems.
"It is only possible to help them when they let people know of the problems, so we can do our best to try to address them with trained counsellors."
Carlisle spent six weeks in hospital after being hit by the lorry on the A64 near York before Christmas. It later emerged he had been charged with drink-driving just two days previously.
Taylor said: "We are very much aware of Clarke's situation and have been involved in the recuperation process.
"He is in the broadcasting world now but that doesn't mean to say he is not still subject to such issues. If they do arise, then of course he knows that we are here to help address them and try to get him back on track."
