Samuel Girard entered the Player Assistance Program a week ago, and while not recent news, I'd like to speak to the situation as it stands.

Kudos to Samuel Girard. This was a brave decision, and the mental health of men is something that is still kicked under the rug far too often.

Samuel Girard made the following statement:

""I have made a proactive decision to take care of my mental health, and will be entering treatment for severe anxiety and depression that has gone untreated for too long and led to alcohol abuse. Taking care of your mental health is of the utmost importance, and I encourage everyone to speak up and seek help should you feel like you need it. I want to express my gratitude to my wife, family, friends, the club, my teammates, and the fans for their patience, understanding, and continued support."

-Samuel Girard, via X.

While it can be tough, and I may not always agree with how publicly these issues are made with players in the NHL, Girard has stepped up and spoken up, shutting down the guesswork and rumor mill, while showing strength in the face of the struggles he's gone through.

As I mentioned before, men's mental health is a subject I am always looking to raise awareness of this. Girard has clearly gone through some tough times, and being in the limelight of the NHL since he was 19 years old, with a games played of 426, it would be easy to see how one might struggle with this. Unfortunately, it looks like Sammy G turned to alcohol to help cope, but made the brave decision to step up to his demons and get the help he needs.

Mental health struggles can affect any of us, regardless of gender, age, or standing in life. It affects the rich, the public figures, the average person, and everyone in between. There are resources to help, and it is never hopeless, regardless of how bad things are.

Heal up soon, Sammy G. We are all behind you in your fight, and we miss you on the ice!

-Jordan

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