Strictly Star Karen Carney Candidly Discusses Overcoming Suicidal Thoughts Stemming from Abuse
Former England football star Karen Carney has candidly shared her battle with mental health issues, including suicidal thoughts stemming from online abuse. Currently competing on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing alongside professional dancer Carlos Gu, Carney’s journey to recovery has instilled a sense of positivity in her life.
Knee Injury and Recovery Struggles
Carney’s challenges began during her time with the Chicago Red Stars in 2009 after undergoing a knee operation. The recovery period took a severe toll on her mental health, prompting an addiction to sleeping pills and leading her to self-harm. “I was in a pretty bad way,” she revealed, highlighting the difficulties she faced.
Support from Coach and Friends
It was her coach, Emma Hayes, who encouraged her to return to the UK despite still being under contract. Carney reflected, “I came back purely to save my life.” With support from friends and family, she overcame her darkest moments, ultimately becoming the third most-capped England player in history, making a total of 144 appearances.
Recognition and Achievements
Carney’s football legacy includes participation in four World Cups, four European Championships, and the London 2012 Olympics. Post-retirement, she has transitioned into a reputable sports pundit, working for TNT Sports and ITV. In 2022, she led a significant review into the future of women’s football, signaling her commitment to the sport.
- MBE awarded in 2017
- OBE awarded in 2024
Impact of Online Abuse
Despite her successes, Carney has faced considerable challenges due to online abuse. During her playing days, she received numerous threatening messages, including wishes of “cancer, leukaemia, and rape.” Following a series of abusive comments on social media, she deleted her Twitter account in December 2020.
A Turning Point in Confidence
Reflecting on her experience, she stated, “That crushed my confidence. It floored me as a human.” The emotional toll of the abuse remains significant for her, more so than her struggles in the United States. She described the feeling of being overwhelmed, as if “the whole world was caving in on me.”
Commitment to Football and Future Endeavors
Despite the adversity she faced, Carney remains dedicated to her work as a commentator, viewing football as “the greatest gift” she has received. She has taken proactive steps to manage her online presence and maintain her confidence, including selective commenting on her Instagram posts.
A Journey of Rebuilding
Her participation in Strictly Come Dancing has become an emotional journey of healing. Carney credits Gu with encouraging her and boosting her confidence, allowing her to embrace positivity and focus on self-acceptance. Together, they are set to perform a Couples Choice routine to Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way” this Saturday, marking another exciting milestone in her life.
