Andy Powell Retires and Opens up About Depression

Think what you want about Powell the player, he was always a character, and will hopefully be fondly remembered for his on field displays and some off field antics.

He's also made a positive and brave move after retiring this week and spoke about the real cause; depression:

http://www.skysports.com/rugby-union/news/12507/10614814/former-wales-no-8-andy-powell-reveals-he-is-battling-depression

And a more light hearted piece from WO


http://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/sport-opinion/andy-powell-should-not-just-12011224

I always liked Powell- what a great character as you say. But sometimes the people who need to get laughs and attention the most are looking for reassurance and validation from others.

I hope he is able to heal and get through this difficult time in his life.

Already speaking about it here:-

https://www.606v2.com/t59264p1050-merthyr-rfc-set-to-become-new-force-in-welsh-rugby

LordDowlais wrote:Already speaking about it here:-

https://www.606v2.com/t59264p1050-merthyr-rfc-set-to-become-new-force-in-welsh-rugby

Okay Andy but that's a Merthyr RFC thread and it might surprise you to know this but people living outside of Merthyr generally don't care about Merthyr - so less of the desperate promotion please.

..might explain why he couldn't settle down at his most recent teams. Fond memories of the guy:

Those around him should now know this is the time not to forget him and think 'well the guy said he's seeing the light, let's leave him to it'.

Can be the most vulnerable time, when you see that light (hope) but then see it close up again before you reach it. Sometimes no hope is a better state than finally seeing hope but not getting there in the first attempt. So hopefully he's remembered and kept in the loop by pals - maybe some pundit stuff to keep his toes in.

SecretFly wrote:Those around him should now know this is the time not to forget him and think 'well the guy said he's seeing the light, let's leave him to it'.

Can be the most vulnerable time, when you see that light (hope) but then see it close up again before you reach it.  Sometimes no hope is a better state than finally seeing hope but not getting there in the first attempt.  So hopefully he's remembered and kept in the loop by pals - maybe some pundit stuff to keep his toes in.

It's never about one breakthrough. You'll have your breakthrough and then go backwards again. Recovering isn't a linear process. But being able to talk about in public is pretty huge. You realise that you have no need to be ashamed of it any more.