A FORMER Rugby League star is to give a talk about his own mental health journey next month to mark ‘Movember’ – Men’s Health Awareness Month.
Danny Sculthorpe played almost 300 games as a Prop Forward representing clubs including Warrington Wolves, Wigan Warriors and Widnes Vikings during his successful career – before a serious spine injury forced him into retirement.
This impacted on his mood and wellbeing and Danny went on to suffer from acute depression. However he recovered and is now a trustee of the State of Mind charity, which aims to improve the mental health, wellbeing and life of rugby league players and communities.
Danny now gives talks about his personal journey and the importance of tackling the stigma associated with mental health issues.
Danny will be speaking at Great Sankey Neighbourhood Hub on Wednesday 7th November from 7.00pm-9.00pm. It follows a very well received talk he gave at Orford Jubilee Neighbourhood Hub earlier this year.
Tickets, costing £2.50, can be bought from any LiveWire library. Proceeds will be going to the State of Mind charity.
Danny also recently gave a talk to the current group of Warrington residents participating in Fit To Tackle, LiveWire’s free healthy lifestyle and weightloss programme.
Current participant Nikki Cotter who was at the session said: “It was a frank, real and incredibly powerful talk that will help anyone struggling with mental health problems realise that they are not alone – and there is absolutely nothing to feel ashamed of in seeking help.”
Wendy Molyneux, Strategic Libraries Manager, said: “Although one in eight men will experience a mental health condition, many people find it difficult to talk about. Earlier in the year Danny openly spoke about his personal experience and we are delighted to welcome him back for what we are sure will be another moving and inspirational evening.
“Please come along and support the brilliant ‘State of Mind’ charity.”
For more information on the health and wellbeing support and services offered by LiveWire, and how to access them, visit www.livewirewarrington.co.uk. For more information on the State of Mind charity visit www.stateofmindsport.org/
