“The ambulance then came. I spent the night in the hospital under observation and then everything’s sort of back on track.”

Slater said he would keep working hard on his mental health, telling reporters it had been an ongoing battle for a number of years.

“It’s been highly embarrassing I suppose on a personal level to undergo everything that’s happened ... I’ve lost a lot in the last couple of years,” he said.

“I’ve made some mistakes and I think there have been some mistruths as well.

“But we fight hard to get on top of things and life’s not easy but I’ve got three beautiful kids where my focus is and looking for a job.”

Asked if there was a need to talk more about former sports stars and their mental health, Slater said: “I still think there’s a lot of gaps that can be filled but certainly retired sportspeople, there’s a list of struggles in retirement.

“Not that my retirement was bad.

“I was working in TV for 20 years and then you know it sort of all snowballed.”

After making his debut during the 1993 Ashes tour, Slater played 74 Tests for Australia, amassing 5312 runs at an average of 42.83 with 14 tons.

He also played 42 one-day internationals.

Slater retired from cricket in 2004, embarking on a successful TV commentary career.

His matter is set for mention at Noosa Magistrates Court on July 4 after he pleaded not guilty on Tuesday.

If you or anyone you know needs support call Lifeline 131 114, Beyond Blue 1300 224 636 or 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).

– AAP