Mark Allen Spent Ten Weeks in Mental Health Clinic Before Belfast Return
Snooker star Mark Allen revealed he spent 10 weeks receiving treatment in a mental health clinic prior to his return to competitive play at Belfast’s Waterfront Hall on Tuesday. The Antrim cueman, currently ranked world number 12, made the disclosure in a statement posted to social media on Wednesday following an emotional post-match interview at the BetVictor Northern Ireland Open.
The 40-year-old was defeated 4-2 by fellow Antrim player and friend Jordan Brown on Tuesday. Following the match, Allen spoke to presenter Rachel Casey on TNT Sports, where he appeared visibly emotional and admitted to being in a difficult place mentally.
I just don’t see a future with snooker in it, if I’m honest,
Allen told the broadcaster during the interview, adding that he was just trying to survive at the minute.
The broadcast concluded with Casey embracing the former Masters and UK Championship winner as fans subsequently flooded social media with messages of support.
Social Media Statement Details Ten-Week Clinic Stay
In his Wednesday statement, Allen confirmed that everything he stated in the television interview was accurate but assured supporters that he is actively working to improve his situation. He explained that his discharge from the clinic was timed specifically to allow him to compete in Belfast.
I owed that to my family, in particular my daughter to see me play for what could be the last time… I also owed it to the fans who have supported me throughout my 21 years on tour,
Allen wrote on social media. He also thanked World Snooker Tour staff for providing support throughout his stay at the clinic.
Reflecting on his recovery process, Allen described himself as a work in progress. I’m not ok, but I’m ok in that itself,
he stated, noting that his condition had been significantly worse in the preceding months. He credited his daughter, therapists, staff, and fellow patients with helping him get through difficult days and find perspective.
Career History With Depression and Future Outlook
Allen previously spoke about battling depression back in 2011, when he revealed that mental health struggles nearly forced him to quit the sport entirely. Addressing his current status on the tour, Allen stated he would continue his treatments before deciding what lies ahead for his professional career.
My fight and determination on the table has always been there for ones to see,
Allen said. I need to show those same fighting qualities off it now for a while.
Regarding the post-match media appearance on Tuesday, Allen noted that he was not forced to speak on camera but felt he owed it to everyone involved to address the public. WST media teams supported him through the process as he prepares to embark on a new personal journey.