Collingwood forward Alex Fasolo is suffering depression and will take a break from the game.

Fasolo is undergoing treatment for clinical depression with a medical specialist and will not play in Perth against Fremantle on Sunday.

It is understood Fasolo remains hopeful that he can be fit to return for the Queens Birthday weekend match against Melbourne but will be guided by medical advice.

Many of Fasolo's teammates had no idea he had been managing the issue for some time. It is understood he was distressed in the rooms after Sunday's win against Brisbane at the MCG.

Concerned to protect his privacy the club made only a brief statement about Fasolo's absence. 

"Collingwood footballer Alex Fasolo will take what is expected to be a short break from playing as he manages the challenge of depression.

"Fasolo, 24, will not play against Fremantle this weekend, but will take time out in the interests of his health. He will continue to train and prepare for football with the expectation of a swift return to playing.

"It is requested that Fasolo's privacy be respected. The club will be making no further comment."

A long list of current and past AFL players in recent years have spoken of battles with mental health issues including Sydney Swans champion forward Lance Franklin, Geelong forward Daniel Menzel and former Brisbane, Melbourne and Geelong ruckman and forward Mitch Clark.

Former Sydney and North Melbourne player Wayne Schwass, who has endured a long battle with depression, set up the Sunrise Foundation to help young people with depression.

Only last month he spoke of the fact there were many AFL players battling depression in secret and he was eager to campaign to let people know to seek help.

"It's about teaching young men that it's completely normal to talk or ask for help. It's not a sign of weakness and that's where we need to move to," Schwass said told News Corp.

"I'm confident there are lot more men in the (footy) industry that are dealing with these things, but are too scared to talk about it.

"When we have got a Lance Franklin who comes out of it, or a Daniel Menzel, it has a really powerful impact. They're the ones we know of."

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