29/08/2025
“SAMH’s services are essential in combatting the mental health crisis, especially The Nook.”
Earlier this month we spoke to Zander Murray, Scotland’s first openly gay professional football, about his mental health journey ⚽
“Back in 2021, my mental health and my own self-talk were just constant negativity. It did impact me.
“I engaged with a lot of different mental health supports. I’ve tried counselling, mindfulness, journalling, improving my diet, among others. Some of these have really helped me, but I’ve learned it’s often about being holistic. It’s not always one thing that helps, but a combination.
“I was very lucky to have a family support network. Friends and people in the football community also reached out to me.”
“For any LGBTQ+ sportsperson thinking about coming out, it can feel like the world is against you. But what you might not see is the outpouring of love and support you’re going to get. Friends, family and people in the football community got in touch to support me.
“When you’re ready, life gets so much better.”
