Senior Rabbitohs players say while they were surprised to learn teammate Greg Inglis had checked himself into a mental health rehabilitation facility they are glad he was able to put his hand up and get help.
Inglis, who is out for the season with a knee injury, "will be undergoing a series of programs and treatments to assist with his mental health," according to a club statement.
Acting captain Sam Burgess said Inglis addressed the senior leadership group shortly before checking in to the facility and stressed the star fullback had the love and support of everyone at the club.
"First and foremost our thoughts and care goes to Greg and his family through this period," Burgess said at a club media session on Thursday, the day before the team heads to Perth for Sunday's clash with Melbourne.
"He's definitely got a lot of support through the club. Certainly the players are right behind Greg; we're there if he needs us and for his family and his two children.
"When Greg comes out from where he's at he'll probably feel the love and support from thousands of people around the country."
Burgess added everyone at the club was proud of Inglis for being proactive in addressing the issue.
Halfback Adam Reynolds hopes Inglis's stance may benefit other people out there who may be struggling with depression.
"Obviously there's no shame [in seeking help], it's a very serious thing in today's society," Reynolds said.
"For someone of his stature to put his hand up and say that he does need help is influencing other people out there if they are struggling to go and get support. We're definitely thinking of him and hope he's doing well.
"It's never an easy thing to go through. We just wish him all the best and we're happy he's come out and seeking support. He's definitely got that here with all of us boys at Souths.
"We hope to see him back here soon doing well."
Centre Bryson Goodwin – who lost his older brother Leon to suicide earlier this year – admitted he was shocked to learn that Inglis had checked himself in but was happy that his teammate was seeking the help he needed rather than letting things get worse.
"It hit me a bit [after what happened earlier this year]," Goodwin said.
"[Inglis] went and got the help that he needed so hopefully he'll come out the other side healthy and good again. I think with the whole of the NRL getting around him and the fans and everyone supporting him, he'll get better.
"I'm glad that's what Greg has done. [People] see that he's gone to get help. I'm very happy that he did and hopefully he'll come out the other side better for it."
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