Mental health problems are common: they affect about one in four people. Among professional athletes, the rate can be even higher with some symptoms.

Professional footballers play out a precarious career in full view of the general public and media. So it is perhaps not surprising that they are more likely to suffer mental health problems than the rest of the population, as revealed in a FIFPRO study.

New Zealander Chris Jackson had a long and successful international and club career. But throughout it all he battled severe mental health problems. Looking back, he regrets the lack of advice and guidance that could have helped him.

FIFPRO today officially launches its mental health awareness programme titled "Are you ready to talk?"

What is Mental Health and what causes mental health symptoms or disorders? In this article we try to provide you with general information you should know about mental health and wellbeing.

An agreement between players and clubs in Norway has raised awareness around mental health and made it easier for players to talk about their mental health challenges.

It is not easy to figure out whether a player has mental health problems. However, if you are able to spot them in the early stages, it can be very helpful for the person in need because an early intervention can prevent these mental health problems from getting worse.

"My name is Anton Olsson. I am a professional football player and I have mental health problems."

FIFPRO General Secretary Jonas Baer-Hoffmann says some clubs are failing to support players and even purposely putting them under psychological pressure

In these challenging times caused by the COVID-19 virus, the Professional Footballers Association Scotland is one of the national player associations with a support service for players that includes free and confidential advice from counsellors.