The Northern Irish snooker star admitted earlier this week that he had contemplated stepping away from the sport after suffering a first-round exit at the Northern Ireland Open

Mark Allen has expressed feeling "completely overwhelmed" by the outpouring of support following his candid revelation about his mental health battles.

The Northern Irish snooker star admitted earlier this week that he had contemplated stepping away from the sport after suffering a first-round exit at the Northern Ireland Open.

The 40-year-old, who hadn't competed since April's World Championship, also shared that he had been undergoing treatment at a mental health facility.

He stated: "Rest assured I'm doing my best to turn things round.

"I have been in a mental health clinic for the last 10 weeks, finally discharging so I could attempt to play in Belfast.

"I owed that to my family, in particular my daughter to see me play for what could be the last time..... I also owed it to the fans who have supported me throughout my 21 years on tour.

"I also owed that to World Snooker who have been amazing from day on in all this, in particular Simon Brownell and Neil Tomkins who have remained in touch regularly, even Simon paying me a visit in the clinic itself.

"I'm not ok, but I'm ok in that itself. I've been much worse in the last few months than you saw yesterday. I literally didn't see a future in anything.....

"My daughter kept me going, the therapists, staff and all the other patients were amazing and helped me through some really dark days.

"I see the light now that I couldn't see before but I do now. I also know it won't happen overnight. I'm a work in progress!"

Allen's honest revelation sparked an overwhelming wave of solidarity, with the snooker star taking to social media on Sunday morning to acknowledge the kindness shown towards him.

The Antrim man also voiced optimism about making his comeback at next month's UK Championship.

Allen posted: "Completely overwhelmed by all the messages I have received since my statement.

"As I continue my treatment and my recovery now know that I simply have to raise more awareness around mental health in the future.

"Best part of 6 weeks before the UK Championships starts and all being well I'll be in a better place by then but for now it's just one day at a time".

"Thanks again for all your support. It's meant so so much to myself and my family."