You never really know what's going on in people's lives.
Geelong's Bailey Smith, fresh off his maiden All-Australian blazer and AFLCA Champion Player Year Award, detailed the struggles he has faced with mental health over the past 18 months.
Smith is a much-followed and obsessed-over figure in the AFL, which all began when he was drafted with Pick 6 in the 2018 National Draft to the Western Bulldogs.
Football fans and keen observers watched his every move, both on and off the field, due to his intoxicating nature and tremendous skillset and work ethic.
But his world came crashing down ahead, and the subsequent anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury he sustained ahead of the 2024 season was the cherry on top.
Gripping with the pressures of being a professional athlete and one of the most prominent personalities in Australia, Smith revealed that he spent a month at Epworth Camberwell in desperate need of help with his depression and anxiety, which double-downed following his knee injury.
"It was about a year ago, I got out of a psych ward," Smith said.
"I was in Epworth Camberwell for like four weeks, and I got out a couple hours a day, and I spent that training.
"I went through a really dark time. I didn't think I'd get to the other side.
"I'm super grateful to be here through the support of my family, my manager Robbie (D'Orazio), been there through the shocking times.
“I’m super grateful to be on the otherside of it, and I wouldn’t change it for the world.”
A powerful message from Bailey Smith as he opens up on the mental and physical challenges he overcame in his recovery from an ACL injury.#AFLAwards pic.twitter.com/DTc2reXFDb
— AFL (@AFL) August 28, 2025
"I know it's just an injury, but until you experience it and have a sense of identity taken away from you, and then go through some teething issues with moving clubs and outside noise, and still trying to just grow up and rehab a knee.
"I'm super grateful to be on the other side of it. I wouldn't change it for the world, but certainly surprised to be where I am."
Smith was traded to the Cats ahead of 2025, and Thursday night's award ceremony became the full-circle moment for the 25-year-old.
A maiden All-Australian blazer and the AFLCA Champion Player of the Year award, shared with Gold Coast captain Noah Anderson.
But Smith's season isn't over yet, with Geelong set to embark on another finals campaign after finishing second on the ladder.
Could there be more silverware coming for Smith?
This article covers mental health issues, including suicide, which may be distressing for some. For immediate support, contact Headspace at 1800 650 890, or visit beyondblue.org.au or call 1300 22 4636 for assistance.
