Luke Humphries, currently ranked No. 2 in the world of darts, credits his willingness to discuss his mental‑health challenges as the key factor that enabled his meteoric rise to the sport’s summit. In partnership with the Samaritans for World Suicide Prevention Day, Humphries reflected on a pivotal moment in 2019 when, midway through a PDC Tour event, he suffered a severe anxiety attack that left him contemplating retirement.
By choosing to be transparent about his struggles, he not only rescued his own career but also set the stage for a series of historic achievements, including the 2024 World Championship title and attaining the world No. 1 ranking. "The single most important thing I ever did was go to a doctor and tell him exactly how I felt," Humphries told a Samaritans volunteer during their conversation.
"Look at where I am now – I’ve accomplished far more than I ever imagined, and I’m grateful I took that step." He emphasized that honesty was the first essential move. "When I opened up to my mum and dad, they were incredibly supportive and helped me get back on track," he explained. "If you had told me a few years ago that I would eventually collect nine major titles, a World Championship, a World Cup and a Matchplay, I would have thought it was impossible given how I felt at the time." Humphries admitted that the pressure and anxiety had pushed him to the brink of quitting.
"I truly believed my career was over and the stress was overwhelming," he recalled. "Choosing to stay the course turned out to be the best decision of my life; it has paid off in ways I never expected." The Samaritans note that one in four people experience suicidal thoughts, and suicide remains the leading cause of death for men under 50. They encourage anyone affected by the topics discussed to seek help via www.sky.com/help/articles/viewersupport.
Looking ahead, Humphries is set to compete in next week’s World Series of Darts Finals. While he acknowledges that anxiety still surfaces, he now possesses tools to manage it effectively. "I still get random bouts of anxiety, but they don’t come at predictable moments. Sometimes I’m on stage in front of hundreds of fans; other times I’m alone in a car and it hits me out of nowhere," he said.
"The crucial difference now is that I don’t let it spiral. That mindset shift has dramatically improved my mental health over the past three to four years." Simon Gunning, chief executive of Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM), praised Humphries for his openness on World Suicide Prevention Day. "The impact of personal stories like Luke’s cannot be overstated," Gunning remarked.
"Our helpline callers often tell us that hearing someone they admire share their experience is the catalyst that pushes them to seek help. Luke’s achievements on the board are remarkable, but his willingness to discuss mental health creates a lasting, different kind of legacy. He’s giving people permission to speak up when they’re struggling, and that ripple effect is profound." If you or someone you know is dealing with similar issues, Sky Sports provides a Support for Viewers page with resources and guidance.
Additionally, the Samaritans can be reached free of charge, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, by dialing 116 123 or visiting www.samaritans.org. Humphries’ story underscores a broader truth: acknowledging mental‑health difficulties and seeking professional help can transform not only personal wellbeing but also professional trajectories. His journey from a 2019 anxiety episode that almost ended his career to becoming a world champion illustrates how vulnerability can be a catalyst for growth. By sharing his experience, Humphries hopes to dismantle stigma, encourage others to seek assistance, and demonstrate that mental health care is a vital component of sustained success in high‑pressure sports and beyond.
The narrative also highlights the importance of a supportive network. Humphries’ family, medical professionals, and organizations like the Samaritans and CALM all play crucial roles in providing the safety net that allows athletes to thrive. Their combined efforts remind us that mental health is not a solitary battle but a collective responsibility. In summary, Luke Humphries’ decision to confront his anxiety head‑on, consult a doctor, and be candid with loved ones and the public has proven to be a turning point—not just for his darts career but for the countless fans and fellow athletes who look to his example for encouragement.
His ongoing commitment to mental‑health advocacy, paired with his continued competitive excellence, serves as a powerful testament to the benefits of openness, professional support, and resilience in the face of psychological challenges.