The EDP says...Adrian Forbes’ depression tale is important

It is a mark of how far society has progressed that Adrian Forbes' revelation about his depression fight does not come as a surprise.

People are no longer taken aback when they hear such news. And there is no hint of any judgment or stigmatising.

Yes, there is a long way to go before understanding, acceptance and treatment of mental illness is consistently good enough.

But it is improving – and people like Adrian Forbes can play a big part in that, in the same way that other former Norwich City stars Darren Eadie, Leon McKenzie and Cedric Anselin have.

Their profile enables them to reach more people, while their popularity ensures that those people listen and respond.

Forbes is the latest to understand that, and is astutely looking to deliver a message to businesses about how they can help those with poor mental health.

There is much that all businesses – and all people – can learn about mental health. The same goes for medical professionals, who are discovering more answers and asking more questions every day.

What must not be overlooked, though, is the scale of mental ill-health among ex-professional sports stars. As powers wane and clubs lose interest, they are immensely vulnerable.

That is why it is imperative that the stars of yesterday are used to educate the stars of today and tomorrow about how to mind their minds.