'One of my darkest periods' – Nick Kyrgios reveals battle with self-harm in candid post about mental health

Nick Kyrgios has opened up about his battle with mental health, revealing he has self-harmed and struggled with suicidal thoughts. In a candid post on Instagram, the Australian said he abused alcohol and drugs during one of his “darkest periods” in 2019. Ad/> The 26-year-old uploaded a photo from that year’s Australian Open, showing marks on his right arm, along with an emotional caption.

TennisKyrgios admits to self-harming and 'dark thoughts'13/02/2022 AT 23:07 “This was me three years ago at the Australian Open. Most would assume I was doing OK mentally or enjoying my life… it was one of my darkest periods," he wrote. “If you look closely, on my right arm you can see my self harm.

I was having suicidal thoughts and was literally struggling to get out of bed, let alone play in front of millions. “I was lonely, depressed, negative, abusing alcohol, drugs, pushed away family and friends. I felt as if I couldn’t talk or trust anyone.

“This was a result of not opening up and refusing to lean on my loved ones and simply just push myself little by little to be positive. I know that day to day life can seem extremely exhausting, impossible at times.” Kyrgios, who won the men’s doubles title alongside Thanasi Kokkinakis at the Australian Open, added that he was “proud” to say he had “completely turned” himself around – and urged others to get help if they were struggling. “I understand that you feel if you open up it may make you feel weak, or scared.

I’m telling you right now, it’s OK, you are not alone,” he continued. “I’ve been through those times when it seemed as if those positive energetic vibes were never ever going to be reality. “Please, don’t feel as if you are alone, if you feel as if you can’t talk to anyone, I’m