NRL stars share the power of support when it comes to invisible disabilities

At Aruma, we know that not all disabilities are visible. Invisible disabilities, including psychosocial disabilities, can significantly impact a person’s daily life, yet they often go unrecognised.

The journey of NRL star Angus Crichton, who publicly shared his experience with bipolar disorder, highlights the importance of supporting those with invisible disabilities.

The Roosters player stepped away from rugby league before the 2023 season to prioritise his mental health after being diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

Crichton acknowledges that speaking up and asking for help can be the hardest step, but hopes his journey empowers others to reach out and get support.

“Once you do that, people will respond and react differently to how you build it up in your mind. Don’t be too proud, accept you may need a bit of help and that’s the first step to getting better,” he told the NRL.

Crichton received treatment at a mental health facility and, with the support of his family, friends, and club, has made a remarkable comeback. His improved mental health has allowed him to excel — both on and off the field.

He received a contract extension with the Roosters and has become arguably the game’s best backrower. He also runs a successful barbershop, and married his partner, Chloe, earlier this month.

Crichton isn’t the only sports star who has navigated the juggle of invisible illnesses and the bright lights of sporting stardom.

Cowboy’s Thomas Mikaele’s nomadic career caused challenges when it came to join waiting lists to explore an autism diagnosis for his son, Nas.

After moving back to Australia, doctors in Queensland confirmed the couple’s suspicions and set the wheels in motion for more support and tools to help Nas and his family navigate his autism diagnosis.

Nas is showing positive signs of growth and development every day, which recently included saying his first word: dad.

“That was special, it was just over a FaceTime call and he just came over and said it randomly,” said Thomas.

Crichton and Mikaele’s journey’s shows how transformative a good support system truly is.

Support at Aruma

At Aruma, we are dedicated to supporting people with psychosocial disabilities through:

• Holistic and personalised approach: We tailor supports to meet your daily needs as well as your long-term physical and mental health.
• Responsive and consistent support: Our team is there when you need us — consistently and without judgement.
• Breaking down stigma: We want to normalise conversations around mental health, so you feel safe to speak up and seek help.
• Education and awareness: We promote increased understanding of psychosocial disabilities among our staff and the wider community.

If you need to talk to someone about your mental health or a crisis in your life, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14, beyondblue on 1300 22 4636, or the Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800.