'I know who my son is': Elijah Hollands's father posts heartfelt message

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• Topic:AFL

  Carlton said last night that Elijah Hollands was in hospital. (Getty Images: James Wiltshire/AFL Photos)

  Elijah Hollands's father, former AFL player Ben Hollands, posts on social media pledging to help lift his son up during a difficult time with his mental health.

  The Instagram post also urged others to check on their friends if they are struggling.

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  Elijah Hollands's father has posted an emotional message of support for his son, vowing to "lift him up until he is restored in full" as the Carlton player deals with mental ill-health.

  Hollands, 23, has been admitted to hospital following what the Blues termed a "mental health episode" during last Thursday night's game against Collingwood.

  Today, Ben Hollands, who played eight games for Richmond in 1999, posted a portrait of his son dressed in his Carlton uniform in a public show of support.

  "For anyone in the midst of healing … You are loved. You have a unique and defined purpose. You are seen whole.

  "I know who my son is — and I will lift him up until he is restored in full.

  "For those supporting someone who is struggling: encourage them, affirm them, and love them.

  The Blues have been investigating the circumstances surrounding Hollands's concerning and erratic performance against Collingwood.

  Last year, Hollands twice took personal leave from Carlton, and later revealed he had been battling mental ill-health and issues with alcohol.

  Carlton says young star Elijah Hollands has been admitted to hospital after suffering a mental health episode in Thursday night's match.

  His latest episode has led to calls from prominent players — including Geelong's Bailey Smith and Western Bulldogs' Rory Lobb — for a league-wide mental-health round.

  Today, Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge and Sydney's Dean Cox raised concerns over the level and type of scrutiny modern players are put under.

  "I've got no doubt that what our players are exposed to and what they have to deal with and manage from a critique point of view is a lot more challenging than it ever has been," Beveridge said.

  "It seems to be some of the assessments, and the innuendo is a bit more personal than it ever has been, and everyone's trying to work out what that means.

  Dean Cox says the pressure has increased since his playing days. (Getty Images/AFL Photos: Darrian Traynor)

  Cox said pressure on players has "skyrocketed" since his playing days with West Coast.

  "The demands that are on players and certainly young people now, the social media has had a big say in that and the ability to be able to scrutinise and talk to people at will," Cox said.

  "I think the players do a really good job dealing with that, and it's about supporting each other."

  Carlton has faced scrutiny over its handling of Hollands, including for allowing him back onto the field during the final quarter against Collingwood, but Beveridge was sympathetic.