In a recent interview, Andres Iniesta, the 2010 World Cup champion and former FC Barcelona midfield maestro, talked about his battles with depression.  These struggles, which occurred during one of his most prosperous work eras, are discussed in his book “The Mind Matters Too.”  During an interview on April 23, Iniesta revealed his thoughts, providing insight into his personal experience.

In his autobiography, Iniesta describes how, at the age of twelve, he went to Barcelona from his small birthplace of Albacete, Spain, which is when his depression started.  “It was a decision I made myself,” the man said.  “On one hand, my career was flourishing, but personally, that separation took a toll on both me and my family.”  His difficulties started when he became emotionally distant from his loved ones.

His life also became extremely complicated in the summer of 2009 when he lost his close buddy Dani Jarque, a player for the opposing team Espanyol, to a heart attack.  Iniesta found solace in his passion for football during this trying time.  “Football is my passion and where I found happiness,” he said.  “My inner pain, which I found difficult to communicate or attempted to conceal, was eased by this sport.  These two universes coexisted, and football ultimately won over until my inner voice said, “Hey, I’m still here!”

Iniesta also highlighted the progress made in raising awareness of mental health issues among professional sportsmen.  Although there has been progress, he admitted that much more needs to be done.  “It’s still hard to acknowledge when you’re not feeling good.  He said, “It is still considered a sign of weakness.”  The six-year stint at Vissel Kobe in Japan came to an end in October when the Spanish legend formally declared his retirement from professional football.