Luke Humphries, currently ranked world number two in darts, credits his ascent to the sport’s summit to the moment he chose to speak openly about his mental‑health challenges. Partnering with the Samaritans for World Suicide Prevention Day, Humphries recounted a pivotal episode from 2019 when, midway through a Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) tournament, he suffered a severe anxiety attack that left him contemplating retirement. The experience forced him to confront his inner turmoil, and he ultimately decided to seek professional help. In a candid interview with a Samaritans volunteer, Humphries explained that visiting a doctor and honestly describing his feelings was the single most beneficial step he ever took.
"Look at where I am now," he said. "All the achievements I’ve collected since that conversation are a direct result of taking that first, honest step." He added that the support of his parents was instrumental, noting that their encouragement helped him navigate the difficult period and regain confidence in his career prospects. The darts player went on to dominate the sport, capturing nine major titles, a World Championship, a World Cup, and a Matchplay victory within a few short years—accomplishments he once thought impossible during his darkest moments.
"At the time, I felt my career was over and the stress was crushing," Humphries recalled. "I almost quit, but I chose to stay the course, and that decision has paid off beyond anything I could have imagined." Humphries’ story underscores a broader public‑health reality: the Samaritans report that one in four people experience suicidal thoughts, and suicide remains the leading cause of death for men under 50.
For anyone affected by these issues, help is available through resources such as Sky’s viewer‑support page (www.sky.com/help/articles/viewersupport). Although he has achieved remarkable success, Humphries admits that anxiety still surfaces from time to time. He describes these episodes as random, sometimes occurring while he is alone in a car rather than during high‑pressure moments in front of crowds. "They’re unpredictable, but I’ve learned how to manage them without spiraling," he explained.
"That skill has dramatically improved my mental‑health outlook over the past three to four years." Simon Gunning, chief executive of the mental‑health charity Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM), praised Humphries for his openness on World Suicide Prevention Day. Gunning emphasized the ripple effect of such testimonies, noting that many callers to CALM’s helpline cite stories like Humphries’ as the catalyst that prompts them to seek assistance. "Luke’s achievements on the oche are extraordinary, but his willingness to discuss his mental health creates a different kind of legacy," Gunning said.
"He gives people permission to be vulnerable, and that ripple effect can be life‑changing." Humphries will compete in the upcoming World Series of Darts Finals, and he remains an advocate for mental‑health awareness. He encourages anyone struggling, or anyone concerned about a loved one, to reach out for help. Support options include Sky Sports’ Viewers Support page and the Samaritans, who can be contacted 24/7, 365 days a year, by dialing 116 123 or visiting www.samaritans.org. The message is clear: speaking up, seeking professional guidance, and leaning on supportive networks can transform personal hardship into triumph, both on and off the stage.