Outpouring of support after Jelena Dokic's devastating revelation

WARNING: The following article contains confronting content.

Australian former tennis player Jelena Dokic has opened up on her struggles with depression and revealed she almost took her own life in April.

The former World No.4, who is now a popular commentator on Channel 9, posted on social media on Monday night detailing her harrowing experience.

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The 39-year-old posted a selfie she took on April 28, a day she "will never forget", showing her in tears.

Dokic bravely revealed how she almost died by suicide and said seeking professional help has "saved her life".

"The last six months have been tough," she wrote.

"It's been constant crying everywhere.

"From hiding in the bathroom when at work, to wipe away my tears so that nobody sees it, to the unstoppable crying at home within my four walls has been unbearable.

"Constant feelings of sadness and pain are just not going away and my life has been shattered.

“April 28th. Will never forget the day, I just wanted the pain and the suffering to stop. Getting professional help saved my life.

“This is not easy to write but I have always been open, honest and vulnerable with you all and I deeply believe in the power of sharing our stories to help us get through things and to help each other."

Dokic, who has worked as a television commentator since retirement, is now encouraging others struggling with their mental health to seek assistance.

"I am writing this because I know I am not the only one struggling. Just know that you are not alone," she wrote.

"I am not going to say that I am doing great now but I am definitely on the road to recovery.

"Some days are better than others and sometimes I take a step forward and then a step back, but I'm fighting and I believe I can get through this.

"It’s ok to feel what I am feeling. It’s ok to feel sad, just keep fighting and come back.

"That’s what I am trying to do and that’s what keeps me going. Don’t be ashamed of what you are feeling.

"It’s ok to feel this way and you can come back from it. It’s possible, just keep believing.

"Love you all and here is to fighting and surviving to live and see another day.

"I will be back stronger than ever."

Outpouring of support after Jelena Dokic's sad reveal

Dokic's post sparked an outpouring of support from numerous sporting greats, including Olympians Anna Meares, Giaan Rooney and Leisel Jones, and former Australian tennis player Mark Philippoussis.

“You are enough. You are worthy. Your pain will heal," Meares wrote.

"Be kind to yourself and if you can’t lean on those who can for now. We need you. We love you. You’re not alone. You will find peace, hang in there.”

Television personality Jacqui Felgate wrote: “You are an inspiration Jelena. All my love xx.”

Dokic won six WTA singles titles during her career and reached the semi-finals of Wimbledon in 2000.

But she struggled for years to escape the influence of her volatile father Damir, tumbling down the rankings into the 600s during her well-documented split from him.

The family rift followed a series of bizarre episodes including Damir being banned from the All England Club at Wimbledon and at one point claiming his daughter had been kidnapped.

with agencies

Readers seeking support and information can contact Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636, Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.

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