Australian tennis star Jelena Dokic has bravely confessed to having almost committed suicide earlier this year in a distressing Instagram post.
The 39-year-old, who reached WTA No. 4 in 2002, revealed that she almost committed suicide in April because she “just wanted the pain and suffering to stop.”
The long Instagram post, posted on Monday evening, was accompanied by an image of Dokic in tears.
The 2000 Wimbledon semifinalist asked her Instagram followers to seek professional help if they had depression or suicidal thoughts.
“I almost took my own life,” he began.
“I will never forget the day. Everything is blurred. Everything is dark. No tone, no image, nothing makes sense … only tears, sadness, depression, anxiety and pain.
“The last six months have been tough. It has been a constant cry everywhere. From hiding in the bathroom at work to wiping away my tears so no one can see, to the unstoppable crying at home within my four walls has been unbearable.
“The constant feelings of sadness and pain do not go away and my life is shattered. I blame myself, I don’t think it’s worth loving and I’m scared.
“I also know that I still have so many things to be thankful for and then I start to hate myself because feeling like that makes me feel like I’m not grateful because I don’t have to be because I want to end everything. What a vicious circle in my head.
Former Australian tennis star Jelena Dokic.Font: Instagram
“April 28. I will never forget the day, I just wanted the pain and suffering to stop. I got out of the way, I don’t even know how I got it. Getting professional help saved my life.
“It’s not easy to write this, but I’ve always been open, honest and vulnerable with all of you and I believe deeply in the power of sharing our stories to help us get over things and help each other. I write this because i know i’m not the only one struggling.
“You just know you’re not alone. I won’t say I’m doing very well now, but I’m definitely on the road to recovery. Some days are better than others and sometimes I take a step forward and then a step back, but I’m struggling and i think i can get over it.
“I believe in the following: It’s okay to feel what I’m feeling. It’s okay to feel sad, keep fighting and come back. That’s what I’m trying to do and that’s what keeps me going.
“Don’t be ashamed of what you’re feeling. It’s okay to feel that way and you can come back. It’s possible, just keep believing. I love you all and here’s to fighting and surviving to live and see another day. I’ll come back stronger than May “.
Australian Olympic champion Anna Meares commented in the post: “Enough is enough. You are worthy. Your pain will be healed. Be kind to yourself and if you can’t rely on those who can do it right now. We need you. We love you. You are not alone. You will find peace, wait. “
TV personality Jacqui Felgate responded, “You’re an inspiration Jelena. All my love xx.”
Six months ago, Dokic announced his separation from his longtime partner, Tin Bikic.
She has been a Channel 9 presenter and commentator since retiring from tennis.
Last month, Australian tennis star Destanee Aiava revealed that she had attempted suicide in April, saying she “did not want to reach” her 22nd birthday.
If you need help in a crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or MensLine Australia on 1300 78 99 78.