Byrne: Psychotherapy Helped Me and I Hope to Be at the World Cup

Newcastle United and England defender Dan Burn confirmed that psychological therapy has had a significant positive impact on his life, urging anyone experiencing mental health issues to seek help and not face the matter alone.

His statements were made during the launch of the "One of Our Own" initiative organized by the club in collaboration with Newcastle City Council as part of Mental Health Awareness Week activities.

The initiative saw the installation of 11 public benches across Newcastle city, featuring messages and questions aimed at encouraging people to openly discuss their mental health. They also include QR codes leading to support services and helplines available 24/7. Byrne explained that he always tries to help young players and his children by sharing his personal experience with them.

Byrne said there are different ways to deal with psychological pressures, explaining that psychotherapy has been very successful for him, but he understands that solutions vary from person to person. He added that group activities, sports, and communication with others can be important means to support mental health and improve mental well-being.

The English defender also expressed his pride in the journey he has taken in his football career, after being released from Newcastle's youth ranks and then leaving Fulham in 2016, before later succeeding in representing the England national team.

The 34-year-old affirmed that he hopes to be included in the national team squad for the upcoming World Cup, noting that the opportunity might not come again in his career.