Ash Taylor hopes others heed his advice after emerging from "the darkest place in his life" because he overcame the fear of asking for help.
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The Gold Coast halfback took a mid-season leave of absence in 2019 to deal with personal issues he says he slowly learnt how to address.
Fit again and enjoying his football, the 24-year-old now hopes that transfers to his on-field form as he adjusts to life under new Titans coach Justin Holbrook.
"I've been through the darkest places I've ever been through in my life and conquered all my fears to speak out and ask for help," he said.
"If you are having troubles, no matter what it be with addictions, family problems or mental problems, reach out and get some help.
"Don't be afraid, it's not weak ... I saw myself as weak but now I'm proud of it, proud to say I did have problems but asked for help."
Taylor was touted as the future of the club after re-signing with the Titans on a marquee long-term deal under former coach Garth Brennan.
But Brennan lasted less than two seasons and Taylor struggled to live up to his hype, finishing last season playing in the second-tier Queensland Cup in a move that helped address his off-field struggles.
He said he was more concerned with the team's struggles than his own mental demons last year, but has simplified his approach in 2020.
"I've got to prove it to myself, I don't owe it to anybody to be better," he said.
"It's just to myself because I know I can be a better player than I have been recently, and a better person."
Australian Associated Press
