# Victor Hedman mental health leave and return

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/victor-hedman-mental-health-leave-and-return
> Updated: 2026-08-28T19:14:49.000Z. Sources: 8. Developments: 2.

Tampa Bay Lightning captain Victor Hedman has addressed his mid-season hiatus from the previous NHL season, explaining that his absence was driven by mental health challenges. Hedman described experiencing intense performance anxiety and a feeling of “paralysis” on game days, which was further complicated by a physical elbow injury.

After a period of recovery involving therapy and individual training, Hedman stated he feels “fresh, motivated, and physically prepared” to return for the upcoming season. To bolster the team's defense during his absence and upcoming return, the Lightning have signed veteran defenseman John Carlson to a two-year deal.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-28: Victor Hedman discusses mental health leave and return to Lightning

Tampa Bay Lightning captain Victor Hedman has revealed that his mid-season absence last year was due to mental health struggles and performance pressure. He is now ready to return for training camp.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/victor-hedman-discusses-mental-health-leave-and-return-to-lightning

### 2026-08-26: Victor Hedman prepares for return to Tampa Bay Lightning

Tampa Bay Lightning captain Victor Hedman is set to return for the upcoming NHL season after stepping away mid-season to address performance anxiety and physical health.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/victor-hedman-prepares-for-return-to-tampa-bay-lightning

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Cite as: Victor Hedman mental health leave and return. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/victor-hedman-mental-health-leave-and-return