UPDATE: Micky Hazard, the retired Tottenham Hotspur legend, is urgently calling for greater awareness of mental health issues after losing his nephew, Jay, to suicide in 2019 at the age of 23. In a heartfelt statement, Hazard emphasizes the importance of listening to those in distress, saying, “We need people to listen.”
Hazard, now 65, recalls how Jay was “one of the happiest-go-lucky boys” he knew, yet battled unseen struggles. His tragic death shocked the family, prompting Hazard to dedicate his life to mental health advocacy. He founded the charity Legend on the Bench to prevent suicide and raise awareness.
In partnership with Samaritans and Mind in Haringey, Tottenham Hotspur is launching a campaign to encourage individuals to reach out for help. Hazard highlights that “one in four people experience suicidal thoughts” in the UK and Ireland, with someone taking their life every 90 minutes.
Hazard shares his personal grief, stating, “I am still as shocked as the first moment it happened.” He describes the harrowing experience of receiving the news and the overwhelming emotions that followed. His sister, Michelle, inspired by her own grief, created the Legend on the Bench initiative, which places suicide prevention benches with vital contact information in public spaces across the UK.
New research from Tottenham Hotspur reveals that 58% of those struggling with mental health would hesitate to seek support. Hazard urges everyone to speak out, stating, “Listening is equally as important.” He believes that opening up about mental health challenges can save lives.
In an effort to further this message, Tottenham Hotspur will showcase a film on match days featuring players and staff addressing mental health struggles. During the upcoming match against Liverpool on December 20, 2023, fans will be encouraged to share the message “to talk is to do.”
Sonia Trivedy, executive director of external engagement at Samaritans, emphasizes the urgency of seeking help: “Last year, Samaritans answered over a quarter of a million calls for help during the festive period.” The organization remains available 24/7 for those in crisis.
Hazard reflects on the evolution of mental health awareness, noting he was less informed during his playing days. He acknowledges the toll that social media can take on mental well-being, stating, “Footballers have to endure a lot more scrutiny than I ever did.”
The campaign, titled Together Against Suicide, aims to provide matchday support and raise awareness of mental health resources. Hazard expresses pride in Tottenham Hotspur’s involvement, stating, “To see my club playing such a vital part in something so special to me and important to my family is amazing.”
As Hazard concludes, he emphasizes the collective responsibility to support one another: “The most important gift that any of us are ever given is life.” He encourages everyone to engage in conversations that can lead to healing and support.
For immediate support, individuals can contact Samaritans at 116 123, available free from any phone, or visit www.samaritans.org.
This urgent campaign aims to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, encouraging open dialogue and support for those in need.
