Quebecer Samuel Girard requested entry into the NHL Player Assistance Program due to “severe anxiety and depression that went untreated for too long and led to alcohol abuse.”

The National Hockey League and the NHL Players’ Association announced Friday evening that the Colorado Avalanche defenseman would be “unavailable for his club for an indefinite period” while he receives assistance from the NHL program. help to players.

A few minutes later, the agency representing Girard, CAA Hockey, published a statement from the player on its social networks, in which he explains having made the “proactive decision to take care of [his] mental health”.

“I am going to start treatment for severe anxiety and depression which have not been treated for too long and have led to alcohol abuse,” writes the Robervalois. Taking care of your mental health is of the utmost importance, and I encourage everyone to speak up and seek help if you feel the need. »

“I would like to express my gratitude to my wife, my family, my friends, the club, my teammates and the fans for their patience, understanding and continued support,” he adds.

Girard missed his team’s last two games, November 20 and 22, for personal reasons.

In a text posted on Facebook earlier Friday, Samuel’s father, Tony Girard, wrote that his son was “in good hands.”

“To reassure everyone, however, we can tell you that we remain in contact with him and that your messages of speedy recovery mean [sic] him greatly. Our man is a fighter, a great go-getter and will always bring honor to our region and to all of Quebec. Hockey remains his great passion! »

“We ask you to respect our privacy and that of Samuel and to continue to send him positive messages for his return to the game as soon as possible, we hope. »

Girard will continue to be paid while he receives treatment. He will return to his club when the program administrators have authorized him to do so.