Niklas Schmidt is renowned for his shooting ability. So much so, it came as no surprise that he found the net from 22 yards against Real Murcia on Wednesday afternoon. Despite the solid win in the first match of 2023 and despite his sweet strike, the 24-year-old used his time in the Mixed Zone on Tuesday as an opportunity to speak openly about his mental health issues. “Other things have been more important for me over the past few months,” explained Schmidt.
Back in September, it was reported that former World Cup, Champions League and Bundesliga winner, Benjamin Pavard, had been suffering from depression. Niklas Schmidt explained on Wednesday afternoon that he could identify with how the FC Bayern defender had been feeling. “I read the reports at the time and I saw myself in them. Depression is a big word. I will go through things with my psychologist to work out exactly what my situation is,” explained Schmidt.
Schmidt took the difficult but important step of opening up to the head coach and to his teammates. In situations such as these, what happens on the pitch becomes a side issue and the lack of playing time becomes of secondary importance. Schmidt explained that he felt he had lost his mojo. “When the people close to you are concerned for your health, then you have to take the advice from your friends and family and seek help. That’s what I did.”
Spending time with his family over Christmas did Schmidt a lot of good and the 24-year-old seems to be doing well when talking about his mental health issues: “It’s about being open about it and showing that footballers can also be affected. Unfortunately it’s still a taboo subject but that makes it all the more important to open up about these problems,” said Schmidt.
Taking the step to talk to his teammates was a big one but the midfielder wasn’t concerned about how they would react. According to Schmidt the other players were very open. “The most important thing is to accept it and to seek help. One shouldn’t be ashamed to speak out as it is a part of life,” stressed the 24-year-old. “I just want to clear my head and to find my spark again. That’s what everyone should have and I want that as well.”
