Colorado Avalanche defenseman Sam Girard has announced his entry into the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program to address his untreated severe anxiety, depression, and alcohol abuse.
‣ Colorado Avalanche defenseman Sam Girard has announced his entry into the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program to seek help for his untreated anxiety, depression, and alcohol abuse.
‣ Girard released a statement through his agency, CAA, emphasizing the importance of mental health and encouraging others to seek help if needed.
‣ Now in his seventh season with the Avalanche, Girard has been a key player for the team, with 182 points in 426 games and a Stanley Cup win in 2022.
Sam Girard, a defenseman for the Colorado Avalanche, has made a big announcement. He’s entering the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program.
On a recent Friday night, Girard opened up. He spoke about his struggles with mental health and alcohol abuse.
His statement was released through CAA, the agency that represents him. He revealed he was dealing with anxiety and depression, untreated for too long. These issues had led him down a path of alcohol abuse.
Girard knew he needed help. “I’ve made a proactive decision to take care of my mental health,” he said. He’s seeking treatment for severe anxiety and depression, which led to the alcohol abuse.
Mental health, he stressed, is of utmost importance. He urged others to speak up, seek help if needed. He thanked his wife, family, friends, the club, teammates, and fans for their continued support.
Next, Girard will enter the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program. It offers players a private way to seek help for issues like mental health and addiction.
Being in the limelight makes it harder to ask for help, according to Bednar. “It’s not just you and your family. Everyone finds out about it, so it takes more courage.” But he assures Girard of the team’s support.
“We’re with him,” Bednar said. They support his decision to enter the program. “You gotta take care of yourself first before you can come help a team,” he added. They miss him and look forward to his return.
Girard is now in his seventh season with the Avalanche. He’s a staple on the team’s blue line. He’s played 426 games with the Avs and has scored 182 points. He was also part of the team that won the Stanley Cup in 2022.
