A little over three months after announcing that he was temporarily withdrawing from competition for personal reasons, Samuel Poulin says he is ready to return to action.

Few, if any, details had filtered out as to the reasons for this break. The 22-year-old Quebec forward, first-round pick of the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2019, however, wrote on Instagram this Wednesday morning that he took care of himself and his mental health.

“After receiving the help I needed, I’m ready to return to Wilkes-Barre and join my team,” he announced, referring to the Penguins farm club, a formation with which he has played since. Last year.

“I would like to thank everyone who supported me through this difficult time,” he added, paying tribute to his girlfriend, family and friends, medical staff and the entire Penguins organization, as well as his teammates and fans “who have shown me their unconditional support with their messages of love.”

Poulin “strongly encourages” the public “to talk openly about mental health”, “since it affects us all”.

“For those going through these difficult times, know that you are not alone,” he concludes.

The former Sherbrooke Phœnix and Val-d’Or Foreurs in the QMJHL has played three NHL games so far, earning one assist. He also amassed 41 points in 85 games in the American League.