See Me and SAMH call for strong action against fans who abuse players over their mental health

Scottish mental health charities have called for football's governing body to take strong action against those who targeted abuse at a footballer who revealed his struggle with depression.

Peterhead FC player David Cox (25), who earlier this season admitted he had self-harmed and attempted suicide, was subjected to sickening chants by Stirling Albion fans during his club’s Scottish League One match earlier this month.

Charities See Me and Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH) condemned the abuse and praised Cox’s bravery in speaking out.

Judith Robertson, See Me programme director, said: “This type of discrimination is completely unacceptable, it can be highly damaging and is a clear example of why so many people feel they can’t speak out if they are struggling with their mental health.

“Stigma and discrimination can make people who are mentally unwell feel worse. It can stop them asking for help and ultimately could be the difference between life and death.

“See Me is urging clubs and governing bodies to take strong action against anyone who abuses a player because of their mental health and for real fans to support anyone who going through these difficulties.”

Jo Anderson, director of external affairs at SAMH, added: “We are saddened by the recent treatment towards David Cox and this highlights the work that still needs to be done in putting an end to mental health discrimination.

“SAMH recently benefited from a fundraiser organised by Peterhead Football Club in support of David Cox, which has helped raise awareness of these issues and helps tackle the discrimination of people with mental health issues.”

The Scottish Football Association is said to be investigating the chants.