AFL Prioritizes Player and Coach Wellbeing with 24/7 Mental Health Support
The Australian Football League (AFL) and AFL Women’s (AFLW) are taking a proactive step towards safeguarding the mental health of players and coaches with the launch of a 24/7 mental health hotline. This initiative, a partnership with mental health and wellbeing service provider Converge, provides access to qualified mental health professionals anytime, anywhere.
Responding to a Growing Demand
The introduction of this dedicated helpline, known as 1300 PLAY ON, comes as the number of players taking extended breaks from the game due to personal challenges has increased over the past 18 months. Recent examples include Gold Coast’s Jamarra Ugle-Hagan missing the entire 2025 season, Norm Smith medallist Bobby Hill taking a leave of absence, Geelong’s Tyson Stengle stepping away during pre-season, and James Harmes’ retirement.
Beyond Players: Supporting Coaches Under Pressure
The need isn’t limited to players. Coaches are also facing increasing pressure, leading some to seize breaks to prevent burnout. Geelong’s Chris Scott and Collingwood’s Craig McRae both took extended breaks during the off-season, acknowledging the demanding nature of their roles and the importance of staff wellbeing.
A Stepped Care Model for Mental Health
Dr. Kate Hall, the AFL’s Head of Mental Health and Wellbeing, explained that the latest hotline is an essential addition to existing support systems. The League has been working towards a “stepped care model,” recognizing that mental health exists on a continuum and that early intervention is crucial. This model aims to provide support for performance, relationships, and life challenges, not just during crises.
The AFL’s Mental Healthcare Roadmap also emphasizes a commitment to the social and emotional wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander players, ensuring culturally responsive mental healthcare is available.
Industry-Wide Impact and AFLCA Support
Converge already has a longstanding partnership with the AFL, providing support to staff and their families. The AFL Coaches Association (AFLCA) CEO, Alistair Nicholson, welcomed the increased support for coaches, acknowledging the high-pressure environment and job insecurity inherent in the role.
Future Trends in Athlete Mental Wellbeing
The AFL’s proactive approach signals a broader trend in professional sports towards prioritizing mental health. Several key developments are likely to shape the future of athlete wellbeing:
Increased Investment in Preventative Measures
We can expect to see more leagues and teams investing in preventative mental health programs, such as mindfulness training, stress management workshops, and resilience building exercises. The focus will shift from solely reacting to crises to proactively equipping athletes with the tools to manage their mental wellbeing.
Data-Driven Mental Health Monitoring
Wearable technology and data analytics could play a larger role in monitoring athletes’ mental states. By tracking sleep patterns, heart rate variability, and other physiological indicators, teams may be able to identify early warning signs of mental health challenges.
Destigmatization Through Open Dialogue
Continued open conversations about mental health, led by athletes and coaches, will be crucial in breaking down stigma and encouraging support-seeking behavior. More athletes speaking out about their struggles will normalize the conversation and create a more supportive environment.
Specialized Mental Health Professionals on Staff
Teams are likely to expand their support staff to include dedicated mental health professionals, such as sports psychologists and counselors, who can provide individualized care and support to athletes.
FAQ
What is 1300 PLAY ON? It’s a 24/7 mental health hotline providing AFL and AFLW players and coaches with access to qualified mental health professionals.
Is this support available for AFLW players? Yes, the hotline is available to both AFL and AFLW players, and coaches.
What kind of support does Converge provide? Converge offers counselling, clinical mental health care, and crisis support.
Where can I find the AFL and AFLW Mental Healthcare Roadmap? You can find it here: https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2026/01/26/1c9e8ef5-4adc-49ab-96e5-fa2a423664ee/AFL-AFLW-Mental-Healthcare-Roadmap-2025.pdf
Pro Tip: Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you’re struggling. Prioritizing your mental wellbeing is just as essential as your physical health.
Did you understand? The AFL’s commitment to mental health extends to staff and families through its partnership with Converge.
Learn more about supporting athlete wellbeing by exploring resources from the AFL website.
