England Women's star defender Millie Bright has revealed that her decision to prioritize her mental health and miss the Women's Euros was the most impactful choice she has made in her career. The Chelsea captain, reflecting on a demanding period, emphasized the importance of recognizing personal limits and making choices that safeguard well-being.
Bright, a stalwart in the Lionesses' defense, was absent from the squad that participated in the Women's Euros. Her absence came after a gruelling season where she captained Chelsea to a domestic treble. The physical and mental strain of constant competition had taken its toll, leading her to a crucial realization.
"You get into that mindset where nothing comes between what it takes to win," Bright explained in an interview with BBC Radio 5 Live's Women's Football Weekly podcast. "It's like an engine, you just keep going." This relentless drive, while essential for success, can also lead to burnout if not managed properly.
After the season ended, Bright felt the full weight of her efforts. "When the season ended, when you finally allow yourself to relax it hits you and I was like, 'I just need to take a minute otherwise I am on the verge of a breakdown'." It was a moment of clarity that prompted her to reassess her priorities.
Bright acknowledged the difficulty of the decision, especially considering her commitment to the team and her desire to compete at the highest level. However, she recognized that her mental and physical health were paramount. "For the first time in a long time I figured out where I was at mentally and I couldn’t even think about the Euros. That was a big indicator that I needed to back off a little bit and just breathe. For the first time I made a decision for me and not to please other people."
Choosing to miss the tournament was a challenging but ultimately empowering decision. "Taking the decision in the summer was by far the best decision I have ever made and one that I am actually really proud of because it is not easy by any means," she stated. It was a step towards prioritizing her own well-being and ensuring her longevity in the sport.
Bright, a seasoned veteran with 202 Women's Super League appearances, has used the time away from the field to focus on her recovery and personal growth. She underwent knee surgery and has begun attending counseling sessions to address her mental well-being.
Bright emphasized the importance of self-care, particularly for those in leadership positions. "If there are problems, I have to fix them," she explained. "I have to take care of people, I have to make sure my team-mates are able to give their best."
She continued, "So when you are in that leadership role you do have to give to other people, but you also have to have a little bit left to make sure you are still doing what you need to do. By the end of it, I had nothing left to give, I was unhappy. I am loud, bubbly, energetic and spontaneous. I felt like I had lost that and really lost myself." Her experience highlights the need for athletes to find a balance between their professional responsibilities and their personal needs.
Bright's decision serves as a reminder that prioritizing mental health is not a sign of weakness but rather a crucial step towards sustaining a successful and fulfilling career. Now feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, Bright looks forward to continuing her stellar career with a renewed sense of self.
