Dermott Brereton has taken a moment to contemplate the significant transformation in the approach to mental health within Australian rules football, expressing admiration for the “beautiful statement” made by Ollie Hollands regarding his brother Elijah.
Elijah was admitted to a hospital in Melbourne on Monday following a mental health crisis during Carlton’s match against Collingwood at the MCG last Thursday.
“It’s a different world,” Brereton, a five-time premiership player with Hawthorn, noted during his appearance on Nine’s Footy Classified on Tuesday evening.
“Elijah Hollands is fortunate to be playing in this current era.
If he had started his career 15 or 20 years ago, the perception surrounding mental health would have been entirely different. People might have dismissed him, saying he couldn’t handle the pressure.
Elijah Hollands from Carlton. AFL Photos via Getty Images
“We’ve likely lost countless gifted players due to the mentality in Australian rules football in those days — you had to endure and if you couldn’t handle the pressure, you were out.
“Now, he will receive the support he may not have found in past eras.
“You can’t say he’s lucky because he’s facing such challenges, but at least he will receive care now.”
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Ollie, Elijah’s younger brother, is also on the Carlton roster and participated in the match against Collingwood last Thursday.
On Tuesday, he shared a touching message for Elijah on Instagram.
“Words can’t capture how thankful we are for the incredible love and support that Elijah and our family have received,” Ollie stated.
“We want to express profound gratitude to the Carlton Football Club, Blues supporters, and the wider AFL community for your unwavering support.
“It is immensely difficult to see your brother going through this, yet the overwhelming support we’ve received is something we’ll be eternally grateful for as a family.
“Love you, Roger.”
Ollie’s post, featuring a nostalgic childhood photo of the two brothers, came after a heartfelt message from their father, Ben.
“This is my beautiful boy,” Ben wrote on Instagram.
“For anyone navigating the path of healing…
“You are loved. You possess a unique purpose. You are seen wholly.
“I know who my son is, and I will uplift him until he is fully restored.
“To those supporting someone in distress: motivate them, affirm them, and love them.
“Reach out, and remind them of their true selves.”
Ben accompanied his heartfelt words with an image of Elijah holding a Sherrin while wearing a Carlton guernsey.
“I think these are two amazing statements from family members expressing their support not only for their son and brother but also for Carlton, which I find quite moving,” said James Hird during Footy Classified.
Brereton commented, “That’s a lovely statement,” referring to Ollie’s heartfelt message.
Compiled by SportArena.au
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