Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta has opened up on his struggles with mental health and depression.

“I decided to speak out on my mental health when I was struggling. I know that I am a public personality, but I had to say things like they were. I never thought about people calling me crazy, or weak,” Andres Iniesta said in his interview with The Wild Project on Youtube.

“When I was struggling with depression, my most enjoyable part of the day was when I took my pill and went to sleep at night. You lose joy from life, from everything. I hugged my wife, but it felt like hugging a pillow. You feel nothing.

“Eventually, life teaches you that depression and mental health can affect anyone. It’s not about material things. I could have had all the cars in the world and everything I wanted, and it still is hard to face life’s problems. You need to train your brain.

“I am still going to therapy, as I need to be at peace with myself. I like to listen to professionals talk about mental health and depression. You tell yourself: This is not me. It’s your body, but you have no life, no joy, and no energy.”

According to Iniesta, his struggles with depression started before the 2010 World Cup. The veteran midfielder had suffered a serious injury and was also affected by the passing of his friend and fellow footballer Daniel Jarque.