Former professional footballer and boxer Leon McKenzie has personal experience of depression, suicidal thoughts and being bereaved by suicide.
He’s a passionate mental health advocate, helping others overcome the challenges they’re facing.
Leon McKenzie, former professional footballer (1995 – 2013) and professional boxer (2013-17) has personal experience of depression and making an attempt.
Leon’s sister Tracey sadly took her own life during his playing career: “I kept strong, but I didn't really know how to deal with it.”
Later, he had a serious injury which “I never got back from it, and I did not recover psychologically."
One night he tried to take his life. “I woke up in hospital, surrounded by my family, and that is the worst feeling in the world, the guilt.”
Now, he is a mental health advocate, speaker and personal trainer, passionate about helping those who are currently struggling.
Fitness is a big part of mentally coping for me. It can make your mind calmer.
Leon supported Samaritans’ Real People Real Stories campaign, alongside fellow sports stars, opening up candidly on his experiences.
He continues to encourage people to be more honest about what they’re really going through, supports people who contact him on social media and has an exciting project coming soon!