NRL star James Roberts checks into rehab for the third time in his career to address issues with alcohol, anxiety and depression
- NRL star James Roberts has checked himself into rehab for the third time
- Rabbitohs centre previously addressed alcohol issues, anxiety and depression
- His club hopes he will return to the field this year and not retire from the game
- Here’s how to help people impacted by Covid-19
NRL star James Roberts has checked himself into rehab for the third time after struggling to cope during the coronavirus lockdown.
The South Sydney Rabbitohs centre made the decision two weeks ago after extensive discussions with his coach, Wayne Bennett.
Roberts has previously checked himself into rehab twice to deal with alcohol issues, as well as anxiety and depression.
It is understood alcohol abuse is not at the core of this stint in rehab, The Daily Telegraph reported.
Roberts (pictured with his younger sister) checked himself into rehab 14 days ago to address personal issues
The South Sydney Rabbitohs star has twice before entered a rehab in Thailand to deal with alcohol issues, anxiety and depression
The club on Tuesday confirmed Roberts had entered rehab to 'undergo treatment to assist with and support his health.'
Officials are reportedly hoping he will not retire from the league and will play again later in the year.
He is unlikely to be named in the starting line up ahead of the NRL's return on May 28 following months of COVID-19 restrictions which forced officials to postpone the season.
The 27-year-old is dealing with some 'personal demons', the publication reported, and his club are deeply concerned for his emotional wellbeing.
Roberts first entered rehab in 2016, and then again in 2018, at a facility in Thailand both times.
Roberts' club is hoping he will make a return to the field before the end of the 2020 season
Roberts (pictured with his partner) has previously struggled with alcohol and mental health issues
Bennett, who coached the former State of Origin player throughout his career, revealed in 2017 that Roberts had also experimented with drug use.
The coach later clarified he was referring to prescription drugs.
At the time, Roberts said he was determined to change his life around.
'There was plenty of underlying issues,' he said. 'But I have come a long way from where I was.
'I'm always going to have problems in my life. It's just a matter of dealing with them the right way.'
Roberts (pictured with his partner) first entered rehab in 2016, and then again in 2018, at a facility in Thailand both times
Comments 0
Share what you think
No comments have so far been submitted. Why not be the first to send us your thoughts, or debate this issue live on our message boards.
