Hansell Riojas moves with a message about his personal struggle and mental health.

The recent post by Hansell Riojas on his Instagram account has generated deep concern within the Peruvian sports community and among his followers. The message, filled with anguish and desperation, reveals that the 32-year-old footballer is going through a critical moment in his personal life, just after ending his contract with Unión Comercio. The post, which went viral within hours, conveys the pain and internal struggle the player is facing. Beyond his football career, which has included clubs like Alianza Lima, Deportivo Municipal, and UCV, this personal message highlights that the mental health of athletes also deserves attention and care. Supportive and concerned comments quickly followed, reflecting the solidarity of a vast community that feels impacted by his situation. In his message, Riojas begins to recount a heartbreaking experience. “I have been this way for a long time... of course it’s not okay and I don’t want to live like this,” he writes, indicating that his suffering is not something recent, but has been accumulating over time. With a visceral and direct style, he describes the pain he feels, using metaphors that evoke an overwhelming internal struggle. The imagery of “emptiness” and “lack of air” is deeply unsettling and resonates with the anguish that many people may recognize in their own lives. The footballer also apologizes for being distant, noting that he has felt he cannot trust those around him. This statement may resonate with many, as it reveals a loneliness that often accompanies those going through difficult times. The pressure that athletes feel, not only for their performance on the field but also due to external expectations and personal challenges, is a topic that is increasingly being addressed more seriously in the sports world. It is crucial to remember that, although Riojas is a public figure, his struggle is a reminder that mental health does not discriminate between status or achievements. The visibility that such messages provide can be a turning point for many, encouraging others to seek the help they need. The discussion surrounding mental health in sports has gained momentum in recent years, but there is still much to be done. The reaction on social media has been overwhelmingly supportive. Friends, teammates, and fans have left messages of encouragement, showing that despite the difficulties, the community can come together to offer comfort and hope. However, such situations also raise questions about the support system available for athletes in Peru and the importance of establishing mechanisms to identify and address mental health issues. Additionally, the relevance of sports institutions implementing well-being programs that focus not only on physical performance but also on the emotional well-being of players has been highlighted. The tragedy of mental health in sports is a reality that cannot be ignored, and Hansell Riojas's story could be the catalyst for significant changes in this area. Riojas's post also invites reflection on how fame and success are not guarantees of happiness. It is often assumed that those in the public eye lead perfect lives, but their reality can be very different. The vulnerability shown by the footballer is a powerful reminder of the human side of sports. As days go by, the sports community will be attentive to the evolution of this situation and Hansell's own response. It is hoped that he finds the help he needs, and that his courage in sharing his struggle serves to open a broader dialogue about mental health in sports. As events unfold, the hope is that his voice not only aids in his own healing process but also inspires others to seek the support they deserve.