"I have let myself get to a very dark place": Carey Price opens up about mental health

Carey Price was in a “very dark place,” and he needed to get help.

Thankfully, that’s what the future Hall of Fame goaltender did.

Price opened up about his mental health struggles in a statement released today. The Montreal Canadiens star, who has been away from the team since the start of the season, explained that he entered a “residential treatment facility” for substance use last month.

“Over the last few years, I have let myself get to a very dark place, and I didn’t have the tools to cope with that struggle,” Price said.

“Last month, I made the decision to enter a residential treatment facility for substance use. Things had reached a point that I realized I needed to prioritize my health for both myself and for my family. Asking for help when you need it is what we encourage our kids to do. And it was what I needed to do.”

Though he recently returned to the Canadiens practice facility, he’s not sure when he’ll be able to play again.

“I am working through years of neglecting my own mental health, which will take some time to repair; all I can do is take it day by day. With that comes some uncertainty [about] when I will return to play.

“I appreciate all of the overwhelming support and well wishes. I please ask that the media and our hockey community continue to respect our privacy at this time. Your support and respect of this so far has been a critical piece to my recovery.”

Price wasn’t present at the Montreal Canadiens’ home opener, but when the team announced his name during player introductions, he received a standing ovation from fans at the Bell Centre.

Hockey fans, not just Canadiens fans, are showing their support for Price today on social media.

1,000% behind Carey!

— CryptoCow (@CowCrypto) November 9, 2021

Leafs fan here but always cheered for Carey. I'm cheering for him even more now. Canada & the hockey community has your back Carey Price. 🙏

— Juicy Strawberry (@Evaaaaaaaad) November 9, 2021

All good things to Carey Price. Good of him for taking care of his health first and foremost.

— Nicole Schuman, M.A. (@Buffalogal) November 9, 2021

Some things are bigger than an on-ice rivalry. From a lifetime Bruins fan, I wish nothing but the best for Carey and his family. So glad he sought the treatment he needed. #NHLBruins #GoHabsGo

— ThankYouKrejci (@BostonJMD) November 9, 2021

Hang in there @CP0031 . Take the time you need to get where you need to be, health come first along with family. We're all pulling for you buddy!

— Martin Cirino Photo (💉💉) 🚆🚇🚉🚍✈📷🇨🇦 (@gmnewlook) November 9, 2021

Carey is an inspiration to many for realizing his struggle and getting help. We all hope he's getting the help/got the help he needs, and he doesn't rush anything back ♥️💪

— Nicholas DG (@nicholas_calcio) November 9, 2021

Mental health always comes first. No matter what team you cheer for, Carey deserves the love and support. We love you Carey ❤️

— Sam (@RealSamuelX) November 9, 2021

This whole fanbase has your back, @CP0031. Take as much time as you need. Extremely proud of you for reaching out for help ❤️

— Wanderer (@harditya94) November 9, 2021

More to come…