LEIGH Griffiths has thanked Celtic for helping him through his mental health struggles, and he urged others facing similar challenges to speak up and seek help.

The Hoops striker marked his return to competitive football last week in Celtic’s 2-1 win against FK Sarajevo as Neil Lennon’s side progressed into the second qualifying round of the Champions League.

Griffiths’ second half substitute appearance was his first competitive involvement since December 8, 2018 and he received a moving welcome from the fans inside Paradise.

Speaking to the media at Lennoxtown this week, the Celtic striker touched on his journey back to playing and the help he has received to reach that point.

“It was very hard being away, and very lonely at times,” he said. “Without the help of the club and support of friends and family I wouldn’t be sitting here now. It’s a massive thank you to them. It’s been a long and difficult road but thankfully there’s light at the end of the tunnel.

“It was a slow drip that was building up. Brendan Rodgers saw that and that’s when he stepped in. I owe a thank you to him. If he never stepped in, who knows where I’d have been. I’m trying to look forward now, be positive and get more games under my belt.

“When Neil Lennon got the job it was a big relief for me, because here was someone who’s been through it himself. If I had to turn to someone for advice, ask questions or just talk to someone, he’d be the man I’d go to.

“I needed to speak to someone and he was the one to do it. He said this season was a clean slate, and to go and show everyone that I could still be a top player, and that’s what I intend to so.”

Now that he is back playing, maintaining good mental health remains a focus for Griffiths, and the 28-year-old urged others to also seek help in times of need.

“Going forward I need to be a bit more open, not keep stuff in and just speak to people, regardless of who it is, team-mates, coaches, PR people," he said. "If I’ve got something on my mind say it because, ultimately, I could be back in the same place and I don’t want to be there.

“Anyone who’s suffering and they want to speak to someone then they should open up because there are people out there who can help.”

Leigh Griffiths: I'm grateful for all the help I've received