1. Tyson Fury (Boxer)
The former heavyweight champion of the world battled depression, bipolar and addiction for years. Despite reaching the top of boxing, Fury has admitted that he often felt depressed and spiralled into a destructive cycle of alcoholism and cocaine addiction, amalgamating in a suicide attempt in 2016. Since then, Fury has successfully returned to the ring multiple times and continued to grow his large family.
2. Billie Eilish (Singer)
Despite cementing her place as one of the world’s biggest pop stars, Eilish has spoken candidly about her issues with loneliness and depression during her teenage years. Later, Eilish found peace through therapy and has recently become an advocate for positive mental wellbeing in young people.
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3. Clarke Carlisle (Footballer)
The least well known name on this list, former professional footballer Clark Carlisle battled mental health and depression for years. In December 2014, Carlisle drove his car into a lorry on the M4 motorway, resulting in serious internal bleeding, broken ribs and a shattered knee. It was revealed some time later that this was a suicide attempt by Carlisle. After recovering through therapy, Carlisle was elected to the prestigious role of Chairman of the Professional Footballers Association. He has since become an advocate for mental health within sporting environments.
4. Adele (Singer)
The 16-time Grammy winner suffered with severe mental health issues in 2019 following her divorce. Adele was able to channel her emotions into songwriting, therapy and fitness goals and is now back to her very best.
5. Michael Phelps (Swimmer)
Widely considered the greatest olympian of all time, Michael Phelps struggled with depression, suicidal thoughts and isolation throughout his career, particularly after major tournaments. Despite winning a record 23 Olympic gold medals, Phelps has conceded that away from sport he often felt emotionally lost. Since retiring the American swimmer has worked hard to try and reduce the mental health stigma within sports.
