Black reveals struggles

Heath Black’s highly anticipated autobiography Black hit the shelves on Monday during a regional launch at Collins Booksellers in Bunbury.

Picture by Jordan McArdle

The book reveals the highs and lows of Mr Black’s 12-year AFL career and his struggles with mental health and alcoholism. Mr Black, a former AFL player and premiership winning South West Football League coach, said the main reason for the book was to help men with mental illness.

‘‘I knew if I was well enough I could capture a really raw book and start the ball rolling on men’s health issues,’’ he said.

‘‘The book uses AFL as a vehicle for some really clear messages about mental illnesses like bipolar, adult ADHD and other related conditions.’’

Mr Black said it was fitting to host the regional launch in the South West where his recovery from mental illness began.

‘‘I started to get better during my time as coach of Harvey-Brunswick-Leschenault,’’ he said.

‘‘I was really lucky to have my time in the South West and it sort of propelled me to get better.’’

The 192-game footballer had a fantastic career since arriving at the Fremantle Dockers as a 17-year-old.

‘‘One of the major highlights for me was being involved in the 200-club near the end of my career,’’ Mr Black said.

‘‘Playing in two preliminary finals was great and winning a WAFL premiership with South Fremantle during my first year in WA was a day I’ll never forget.’’

Mr Black will continue his football career this year with Vermont Football Club in Victoria.

Five per cent of sales of Black will be donated to the Men’s Advisory Network.