Millie Bright: Missing Euros Was 'Best Decision' for Mental Well-being After Nearing 'Breakdown'

England Women's team stalwart Millie Bright has revealed that opting out of the recent Women's Euros was the most pivotal decision of her professional career. The prominent defender, who was not part of the squad that successfully defended their championship title, disclosed she was "on the verge of a breakdown" following an exceptionally demanding season.

Bright had an arduous year, captaining Chelsea to a domestic treble and previously reaching the World Cup final with the Lionesses. The immense pressure and relentless schedule eventually took their toll.

In a candid interview on BBC Radio 5 Live's Women's Football Weekly podcast, Bright elaborated on her crucial decision to prioritize her mental well-being. "You get into that mindset where nothing comes between what it takes to win," she explained. "It's like an engine, you just keep going. When the season ended, when you finally allow yourself to relax it hits you and I was like, 'I just need to take a minute otherwise I am on the verge of a breakdown'".

The decision, while challenging, proved to be the right one for her personal recovery. "For the first time in a long time I figured out where I was at mentally and I couldn't even think about the Euros. That was a big indicator that I needed to back off a little bit and just breathe," Bright stated. She emphasized a newfound self-prioritization: "For the first time I made a decision for me and not to please other people."

Reflecting on the impact, Bright added, "Taking the decision in the summer was by far the best decision I have ever made and one that I am actually really proud of because it is not easy by any means."

Following her decision to step back, Bright underwent knee surgery and has also commenced counseling sessions. She expressed that she now feels significantly better and is ready to resume her illustrious career with renewed vigor. "If there are problems, I have to fix them," she affirmed. "I have to take care of people, I have to make sure my team-mates are able to give their best. So when you are in that leadership role you do have to give to other people, but you also have to have a little bit left to make sure you are still doing what you need to do."

Bright, who holds the distinction of having the most Women's Super League appearances among active players with 202 games, candidly recalled her previous state. "By the end of it, I had nothing left to give, I was unhappy. I am loud, bubbly, energetic and spontaneous. I felt like I had lost that and really lost myself." Her journey highlights the critical importance of mental health and self-care even for elite athletes.