"Be brave enough to ask for help" - Patrik Laine opens up about the struggles of mental health

By Ankit Kumar

Modified Aug 28, 2024 20:54 GMT

Montreal Canadiens forward Patrik Laine spoke about mental health issues in a video posted on 'From Us to You,' a community organization’s Instagram account. In the video, Laine shared valuable advice that he had received, for people who are struggling with mental health.

"Hey, it's Patty here. I think one of the best advice ever given to me was ‘be brave enough to ask for help’." Laine said, "Personally, I struggle with that a lot. I feel like with a lot of people, there's a lot of shame, a lot of being too proud to reach out and ask for help. Always. For me, it felt like I was complaining. But people, they want to listen, they want to help."

Laine believes that talking about problems is important, even though it can be tough.

"I've learned that talking is the best, best medicine for that, whether it's to your friends, to a professional," he said.

"For me, it's been my therapist seeing her three times a week. It's been a lifesaver, going through the emotions, going them over and over again, even though it's not too much fun to talk about hard stuff like that."

Talking about his struggles got easier for Laine each time he did it.

"I think my main point to this is that whatever it's mental health related or whatever, it's just, let's talk about it way more than we do in today's world. World," he said.

Patrik Laine has faced challenges, including missing a season due to a shoulder injury and seeking help from the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program. He encouraged others to talk openly about mental health issues and seek support.

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Patrik Laine got traded to the Montreal Canadiens after clearing the NHLPA

Patrik Laine has been traded from the Columbus Blue Jackets to the Montreal Canadiens. The Blue Jackets got D-man Jordan Harris and a second-round pick in the 2026 NHL draft. Laine had requested the trade for a fresh start after dealing with a shoulder injury and mental health issues.

Blue Jackets general manager Don Waddell said the trade needed to benefit both sides and ensure Laine was ready for a change. Canadiens GM Kent Hughes spoke with Laine before the trade and was confident about his readiness for Montreal.

Patrik Laine who signed a four-year, $34.8 million contract in 2022 had nine points in 18 games last season. Hughes expects Laine to contribute on and off the ice, helping younger players. This trade gives Columbus more financial flexibility and adds competition for roster spots.