St Kilda midfielder Jack Steven will take an extended break from the football club in order to focus on his mental health.

Steven took a break during the pre-season for the same reason, before returning to the Saints' line-up in round one.

The 29-year-old has played four games this season.

“The club and Jack have been working on managing his health and well-being over many months,” General Manager of Football Simon Lethlean told the club's website.

“The best option at present for Jack to fully overcome his challenges is to take an extended break away from football.

“We don’t have an exact time-frame on how long that will be but the club will continue to provide as much support as possible.

“We ask again that Jack be given the time and privacy to deal with this matter.”