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Ex-Athletes have high rates of addiction

The research found that  32 percent of those surveyed didn't feel in control of their lives after leaving their sport. Twenty-four percent said they suffered from physical and mental health issues or financial and addiction problems as they sought to move on from professional sport.

Among respondents, 16-17 percent reported depression, anxiety and low self-esteem.

“When you come to the end of your career you obviously have more time on your hands and you drink three or four times a week, then it becomes every day, and at one stage I was drinking eight or nine bottles of wine a day,” said Kenny Sansom, the former Arsenal and England footballer, who recently admitted to alcoholism

Sansom said he would encourage any sportsmen with similar problems to seek help: “I think the biggest thing is don't be afraid to ask for help, that doesn't mean you are weak, it actually means you are stronger.”

http://news.sky.com.