To provide a more immediate reference to this issue, our 1st XI player, Adam Bardouleau, shares his own personal testament. Adam is using his experience to support a campaign that he will be running during the summer through the mental wellbeing charity, 'Opening Up Cricket'. Please take time to read...
Mental health is important now more than ever. It's something that I'm now personally invested in raising awareness. My brother, Matt, took his own life in 2019 and this came as a complete shock. This clearly highlighted that Matt was suffering in silence, but he portrayed himself to be his happy self that we all knew and loved. The trauma it has caused family and friends is something that I don't wish upon anybody and therefore there is significant importance in raising awareness of mental health, and of the services and support which are available. Personally, over the last 18 months, the support from Worthing Cricket Club has been fantastic throughout the club from all the players, committee members and genuine supporters of the club. I'm forever grateful for the support that has been shown.
There are many people out there that are suffering in silence, but the message is key - it's okay to not be okay. As the cricket charity 'Opening Up' states 'It's not weak to speak'. 'Opening Up' is a charity that as a club we will be supporting and building a partnership with. This summer, the club will be selling 'Opening Up' Bat stickers to raise money and awareness for this worthy cause. 'Opening Up' uses the strong cricket community to provide support and resources to promote mental wellbeing and suicide prevention. 'Opening Up' work with professional and amateur cricketers through podcasts, workshops and resources as a tool for people to discuss their experiences and methods for mental wellbeing and suicide prevention.
Please take some time to consider supporting us.
Adam Bardouleau
