Rhys Bennett, Manchester United defender and former captain of the club’s 2022 FA Youth Cup-winning side, has spoken candidly about the devastating loss of his father, David, to suicide. In an emotional interview with BBC Sport, the 22-year-old highlighted the importance of mental health awareness, supporting loved ones, and reaching out to anyone struggling.
Bennett, currently recovering from a knee injury in preparation for a loan move to a League One club, said his aim in speaking publicly is to help others, even if he may never know the direct impact of his words.
“Someone might be feeling a certain way, but hopefully this nudges people and they might just check up on a person and ask, ‘Are you OK?’” Bennett said. “Don’t question yourself — just do it. Let the people you’re close to know that you’re there for them.”
Remembering His Father
David Bennett was described by his son as hardworking, supportive, and influential in shaping Rhys’s resilience and work ethic. Rhys reflected on their relationship:
“As much as it’s a sad situation, and the last chapter of his life wasn’t a good one, you still have to celebrate his life and think about the good times,” Bennett said.
He added that if he could have one more conversation with his father, he would express his gratitude and love, emphasizing how much he appreciated everything David did for him.
“You don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone,” he said, highlighting the emotional impact of sudden loss.
Advocating Mental Health Awareness
Bennett’s message is simple but powerful: reach out and connect with those around you. He stressed that struggling individuals may mask their true emotions, putting on brave faces for friends and family while quietly suffering.
“People put masks on because they don’t want to be a burden to somebody else,” Bennett explained. “They might be crying out for someone to just ask them, ‘Are you alright?’”
He encouraged constant communication, saying it should not be restricted to the holiday season:
“There should never be a time of year where you don’t speak. It should be a year-round thing.”
Using Personal Experience to Help Others
While Bennett acknowledges the pain and grief of losing his father, he also recognizes that sharing his story may help others struggling with mental health.
“I have peace of mind knowing it might resonate with somebody and affect their decision to become more positive and make a change in their life,” he said.
Despite the tragedy, Bennett is motivated to continue his career and honor his father’s memory. He sees his loss as a source of determination, saying:
“The things I achieve in life will be bittersweet because he’s never going to be there to see it. But it still spurs you on. It gives you that fire in the belly that I’m going to do this for him, my family, and myself.”
Bennett’s Key Advice: Just Reach Out
Ending the interview with a heartfelt plea, Bennett urged people to reach out to loved ones or seek professional support:
“It doesn’t matter what time of day it is. There are helplines 24 hours. Family, friends. Reach out and connect. Speak with people. Be there for people. Let them know that it doesn’t matter what the time of day is — you will be there for the people that you love and appreciate the most.”
Bennett’s openness provides a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health support, the value of conversation, and the profound impact of simply asking someone if they are okay.
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