Ex-NHL'er comes out about struggles with alcoholism and depression

Post-concussion symptoms have been at the forefront of discussions in the NHL over the past few years - with some ex-NHL'ers committing suicide after it was revealed that they had suffered multiple concussions throughout their career.

Other players had their careers cut massively short, and have had to deal with the lingering effects of concussions throughout their lives, driving some players into alcoholism and depression.

One such example is Geoff Courtnall, formerly of the Boston Bruins, Vancouver Canucks, Edmonton Oilers, Washington Capitals, and the St. Louis Blues.

In an exclusive interview with Ben Kuzma of The Province, Courtnall revealed that he suffered more than 12 concussions before the age of 37 and they ultimately led to the end of his career.

Following his playing career, he's continued his career behind the scenes. A particularly sad story about his time in Vancouver during the 2010 Olympics was brought to light.

“I was here for the entire Olympics and basically drinking from 11 in the morning until 2 a.m.,” Courtnall began. “I had a great time, but I had been sort of pushing the limit of drinking too much. A lot of red wine and having a lot of fun, and thinking it was great and more important in my life than the important things. 

“I had a few instances where I got nailed for drinking and driving. What got to me was that and Cam Neely calling me and telling me he was worried about me. We’re really close and that was it. It was a turning point because I just said: ‘I think I’m drinking to mask problems.’”

These problems stemmed from his career ending abruptly due to multiple concussions, from the general hockey player lifestyle, and other life factors, including his father's suicide.

He had balance and dizziness issues when performing certain physical activities, most notably skating - which further compounded his issues.

As the warrior he is, he sought minimal counselling and fought his demons on his owns - and he's a better man for it today. Father to two sons, he is happy where he is now, and grateful for the difficult road he took following the tumultuous end to his hockey career.

You can check out the full interview with video here.