Warriors prop James Gavet has opened up on his off-field demons of the past, revealing struggles with both alcoholism and depression lead to multiple attempts to take his own life.
Gavet has admitted that he tried to commit suicide on three occasions during a particularly tumultuous period, with alcohol a contributing factor in each instance.
"Those memories will never, ever, leave me or any of the people that were there," Gavet told 1News.
"A few of those [attempts] were really close."
The Warriors provided the 28-year-old with some professional help and it's that assistance, along with the support of teammate Kieran Foran, which he credits for his recovery.
"He [Foran] is just always there to encourage you and ask: 'Hey, man. Are you okay? Bro, we really need you. He gives you these locked eyes and you can't run away from it. And you don't want to let him down."
Foran himself is no stranger to internal conflict, having battled through his own mental illness and addiction following his split from his wife.
After being overlooked for the opening two rounds of the season by coach Stephen Kearney, Gavet is now on the cusp of becoming a starting regular with some eye-catching performances during the side's recent two-game win streak.
Gavet has been groomed by the Auckland-based club from a young age, starting for the NYC team in 2009 before moving his way up the ranks.
Off contract at the end of 2017, Gavet admits he's received interest from other NRL clubs but Mt Smart is where he wants to remain.
"I'd love to stay, but that’s out of my hands."
Newshub.