MENTAL illness is more debilitating than most people realise.

It is harder to spot that a broken arm but often the effects can go untreated and last a lifetime.

Mental illness knows no boundaries and can strike at any time, as former Clarets star Clarke Carlisle knows all about.

The 35-year-old was seriously injured following a suicide attempt that saw him jump into the path of a lorry near York in December.

Now on the road to recovery, the retired defender has decided to launch The Clarke Carlisle Foundation for Dual Diagnosis, to help others in his situation. The charity will “aim to raise awareness levels about Dual Diagnosis, and funds for a purpose-built treatment facility”.

Dual diagnosis describes patients with both severe mental illness, mainly psychotic disorders, and problematic drug or alcohol use.

Sporting Chance, a clinic in Hampshire, was set up by former footballer Tony Adams, to help sporting men and women deal with “destructive behaviour”. But despite the good work done charities like this, Mr Carlisle, who has battled alcohol addiction feels more needs to be done to breakdown taboos. Mr Carlisle must be praised for his determination to speak out and his find a possible solution to help others in desperate situations.