Tottenham and England midfielder Harry Winks has urged men, in particular, to talk about any prevalent mental health issues they may be struggling with during lockdown.
Fifpro, the worldwide body representing professionals, alongside Amsterdam University Medical Centers last week announced their study had found the number of footballers reporting symptoms of depression had doubled during the lockdown period.
Winks - speaking in an interview with Micah Richards as part of the Football Association's #FootballsStayingHome initiative - stated it's not just footballers that should speak out, however, but the general public as well.
The 24-year-old acknowledges it's not always a simple task to talk about such emotions and reveals he has been utilising his daily hour of outdoor exercise - on top of the daily Zoom fitness sessions with the Tottenham squad - to keep busy.
"It's important - especially as men, not just footballers," he said.
"We always trained never to really talk about things and get it off our chests but I think now everybody is more open about it.
"People have come out and said more about their problems, it's important that everyone talks about it and it leads to a healthier lifestyle and mindset.
"When you're trapped in your house it can be quite difficult. I'm lucky I've got such a strong group of people around me - my friends, my family who I talk to every day, and it's important that I stay in touch with them.
"I follow government guidelines, go for a daily walk every day as well, just to get out of the house, get some fresh air, a bit of exercise. But I'm lucky that I've got that close-knit family and friends around me."
