Jelena Dokic, who reached a career-high WTA ranking of No.4, retired from professional tennis in 2014
Former tennis star Jelena Dokic has revealed she nearly took her own life six weeks ago amid mental health struggles. Dokic is a former world No 4 and reached the Wimbledon semi-finals in 2000. The 39-year-old Australian uploaded a lengthy Instagram post describing how she felt in April accompanied by a photo of herself in tears.
In her post, Dokic said that she had been struggling for six months and those feelings culminated in her attempting to take her own life. However, she has since sought professional help and says she believes she is on the road to recovery.
“28.04.2022 – I almost jumped off my 26th floor balcony and took my own life. Will never forget the day. Everything is blurry. Everything is dark”, wrote Dokic, recollecting her nightmares from April.
On a positive note, she stated – “I pulled myself off the edge, don’t even know how I managed to do it. Getting professional help saved my life. This is not easy to write but I have always been open, honest and vulnerable with you all and I deeply believe in the power of sharing our stories to help us get through things and to help each other.”
Fans convey their unconditional support for Jelena Dokic
Fans on social media expressed their support and love for Jelena Dokic. It is indeed heart-warming that Dokic managed to pull through the bad times and is now on her road to recovery.
“Thank you Jelena for sharing this. Yes, you are not alone. Many of us suffer depression ,(a real thing), wanting it all to go away. Hope you are doing better. Your are worth it. Small steps, breathe &,don’t be afraid to ask for help. Stay strong” – a heartfelt message from a fan on Twitter.
Another fan, who has been through a similar situations, had words of advice for the same tennis star. “Also be aware of the effect of certain medicines. I took nerve meds prescribed by a doctor then I suddenly felt like jumping off a building for the stupidest reasons: that I was injured & can’t do sports. Good thing I looked up the meds & found it can trigger suicidal thoughts!”, he wrote.
“Keep fighting Jelena, the shackles will fall away with help. Wishing you peace, support and brighter days”, wrote another fan, expressing her support.
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