Former Scotland rugby captain Stuart Hogg has revealed he has “reset” at a rehabilitation centre after being arrested and charged earlier this year.
Hogg, 31, was released by Police Scotland on an undertaking to later appear at Jedburgh Sheriff Court following an alleged disturbance in his hometown of Hawick on 25 February.
In an update on Instagram on Sunday, the former Glasgow Warriors and Exeter Chiefs full-back said: “I was lost, needed help, direction, time away from the spotlight to be able to take a deep breath and think.
“I’ve been so concerned about what people thought of me, how I was coming across, the impact I would have on them and how I would survive the day. I lived every moment in my head and it wasn’t healthy.
“Spending time at a rehabilitation centre allowed me to reset, learn about myself and talk about how I felt, without being judged.
“It’s not been easy but it was the right thing to do. Taking accountability was the first step in the right direction. I accept I have made mistakes and understand why I acted as I did.”
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Hogg retired from rugby last July after winning 100 caps for Scotland and scoring a record 27 tries.
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Hogg added: “Personal, private issues being played out in the public eye and online abuse are things that have impacted me significantly. I’ve not been able to deal with it. Online abuse is not ok.
“Having some time away has allowed me to see the world differently, be grateful for the things I have, and most importantly, be excited about what is in front of me in the short, medium and long-term.
“Thank you to everyone who has been in touch and offered support, friendship and love.
“You have helped me through the darkest of times and I will look forward to embracing what is next with you all.”
