NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Nashville Predators right wing Austin Watson, who turns 26 on Sunday, says in a new Instagram Post on Friday that he's battled anxiety, depression and alcoholism since he was 18 years old.
The post, which features note written by Watson on an iPhone, also discussed the assault allegations that ultimately led to an 18-game suspension.
"I have dealt with anxiety, depression and Alchoholism since the age of 18," Watson wrote. "I maintained sobriety for 23 months until the middle of May, 2018, when I began drinking. After the events on June 16th, I voluntarily entered the NHL SABH Program, and I am currently sober and committed to living a healthy lifestyle so that I can be the father, partner, teammate and person I want to be."
The SABH program is shorthand for the NHL and NHL Player's Association (NHLPA) Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health Program, which is a confidential program for players.
The June 16th incident Watson referenced involved Watson and his domestic partner. It ultimately resulted in Watson pleading no contest to a charge of domestic assault on July 24, 2018. Watson was initially suspended for 27 games, but it was later reduced to 18.
"I take full responsibility for my involvement in the argument and have learned from the situation and taken the necessary steps to ensure that nothing of this nature happens again," Watson wrote. He also states that the two were involved in a "nonphysical" argument on that day while saying he "did handle matters that day poorly."
As for the reasons behind the post, Watson wrote, "Mental Illness runs rampant in the world today. In my experience it can often feel lonely, consuming, and at times unbearable. Please know that you are not alone. There are so many of us who seem to have the picture perfect life, no problems in the world. Yet I deal and I battle just as much as and no more than the next person."
