Samuel Girard Shares An Inspirational Message Before His Return From The Player Assistance Program

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Tyler Ball
December 30, 2023 (10:22 PM)

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Over the last couple of weeks Avalanche defenseman Samuel Girard has been absent from the team. This is because he was in the NHL's Player Assistance Program but now Girard has returned and had an inspirational message to share when he came back.

Girard Enters Player Assistance Program For Mental Health Reasons

It was announced by the NHL that Samuel Girard would be entering the Player Assistance Program. This program is used for many reasons from addiction to mental health help.

After it was announced Girard was in the program he released a statement. The statement confirmed he was dealing with mental health problems that he needed to get taken care of.

Girard will now be returning after 5 weeks away from his teammates and the game. With his return has come an inspirational statement on what he learned from his time away.

Girard Shares Inspirational Message Before His Return

Recently Girard spoke for the first time since ending his time in the Player Assistance Program. He shared a message that has been heard before regarding mental health but is always impactful.

if you need help, it's okay to reach for help

Girard continues to voice that anyone struggling with their mental health should not feel ashamed or afraid to reach out. He is the latest in a long line of athletes to share his story about mental health. His shared experiences continue to make the NHL a safer place to open up about mental health.

As Read On - Blade Of Steel - Samuel Girard delivers emotional message ahead his return to the lineup