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Wellbeing challenges

We all have times in our lives when we aren’t feeling our best and things can feel tough. It can be hard to know exactly what we’re feeling at times and why.

Have a look below at some of the common challenges we can all face. You’ll find a range of strategies and resources as well as videos of rugby players sharing their own experiences and tips that have helped them cope with tough times.

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Depression

Depression is a serious mental health condition that can profoundly impact your thoughts, emotions, and daily functioning. If you're experiencing persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed, know that you're not alone.
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Anxiety

Anxiety is a common mental health concern characterised by persistent worry, fear, and unease. While experiencing some anxiety is normal, if it begins to interfere with your daily life and relationships, it's important to seek support and explore coping strategies to manage your symptoms effectively.
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Stress

Stress is a natural response to life's challenges, but when it becomes overwhelming, it can take a toll on our mental and physical well-being. Learning to recognise the signs of excessive stress and developing healthy coping strategies can help you navigate difficult times more effectively.
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Injuries & Concussion

Injuries that affect your ability to play can be one of the biggest challenges rugby players face. While players and support staff put a lot of effort and emphasis into preventing injury, they are often an unavoidable part of playing the game.
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Suicidal Thoughts & Self-harm

Suicidal thoughts and self-harm are serious issues that no one should face alone. If you're struggling, know that help is available and reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness.
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Cultural Identity

Cultural identity is about a feeling of belonging; our background and our whānau can play a massive part in that. For some people their cultural identity involves more than one group; that can be pretty special but it can also be challenging sometimes.

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Coping with team deselection

Being deselected from a team can be a challenging and an emotional experience. It's a time that can bring about self-doubt and uncertainty, but it's also an opportunity for growth and resilience. Here's some guidance on navigating this period effectively.
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Addiction & Substance Abuse

Addiction is the urge to repeatedly use a substance or engage in an activity, often to the point where it affects your wellbeing. Recognising the signs of addiction is crucial for seeking help early. There are two different types of addiction, physical and psychological.