Helpline launched by IRUPA to assist players
A 24-hour helpline to support past and present rugby players will be launched by the Irish Rugby Union Players Association to assist player’s welfare and health.
The launch of the new confidential service was organised following a number of recent studies that highlighted concerns around player welfare issues.
Firstly, IRUPA canvassed all their members in this country to assess how players handle emotional stresses and strains involved with professional sports.
Results of the study revealed that 67% of members worried about their playing performances. As a result of this worry many suffered from ‘excessive lack of sleep’ which had a negative effect on their lives outside of rugby.
An International study by the University of Cape Town which focussed on retired players from Ireland, France and South Africa also revealed some important findings.
Distress, depression, sleep disturbance, alcohol abuse, smoking and anxiety were all listed by Dr Vincent Gouttebarge.
Unhealthy nutritional behaviour ranked among the biggest concerns for Irish players (60%) while 25% or more admitted to adverse alcohol behaviour and suffering from anxiety and sleep disturbance.
IRUPA is aiming to make the independent confidential service available to players from academy level right up to senior level as well as retired players and their families.
