Wales prop Donna Rose shares how rugby helps manage her borderline personality disorder

Donna Rose, a 35-year-old police officer and Wales tighthead prop, was diagnosed with borderline personality disorder at age 21 after a period of mental-health crisis. She describes the condition as causing amplified self-doubt and a persistent inner voice that undermines confidence. Rose manages symptoms with a daily pill, but emphasizes that rugby delivers the most effective “medicine,” releasing adrenaline that dulls the intrusive thoughts.

Her teams at Saracens and Wales maintain a close support network, offering daily check-ins and the option to step away when the changing-room atmosphere becomes overwhelming. The birth of her daughter Margot has added a powerful source of comfort, transforming difficult days with her smile. Open about her diagnosis, Rose hopes her story encourages others with mental-health challenges to pursue their goals.