Elijah Hollands’ brother Ollie and father Ben have shown their support to the Carlton midfielder amid his mental health battle.

Hollands was admitted to hospital on Monday, four days after his erratic performance that was described as “mental health episode” in Thursday night’s loss to Collingwood.

The 23-year-old has a history of mental health battles and off-field challenges, which threatened to derail his career last year before he fought to win his way back onto Carlton’s list ahead of the 2026 season.

Ollie played alongside his brother on Thursday night, but hadn’t commented on the concerning situation until Tuesday afternoon when he posted on Instagram.

Alongside a photo of the two brothers as kids, Ollie thanked Carlton and the public for their overwhelming support.

Ollie Hollands says he’s grateful for all the support the AFL industry has shown his brother, Elijah.Ollie Hollands says he’s grateful for all the support the AFL industry has shown his brother, Elijah. Credit: OllieHolland/Instagram

“There are no words to describe how grateful we are for all the love and support Elijah and our family have received,” he wrote.

“We want to say a huge thank you to the Carlton Football Club, Blues supporters and the greater AFL community for all of your support and love.

“It’s incredibly challenging watching your own brother go through something like this but the amount of support that we have received has been overwhelming and as a family we will be forever grateful.

“Love you Roger.”

Earlier on Tuesday, Ben Hollands, who played eight games for Richmond in 1999, made a heartfelt post in support of his son.

“This is my beautiful boy,” the post reads.

“For anyone in the midst of healing… You are loved. You have a unique and defined purpose. You are seen whole.

“I know who my son is — and I will lift him up until he is restored in full.

“For those supporting someone who is struggling: encourage them, affirm them, and love them.

“Go to them, remind them of who they truly are ❤️.”

Ben Hollands has posted a heartfelt message in support of his son.Ben Hollands has posted a heartfelt message in support of his son. Credit: Instagram

The Blues continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Hollands’ concerning and erratic performance at the MCG last week, which the AFL are closely monitoring.

Despite admitted they were aware Hollands was struggling on Thursday night, Carlton are yet to explain how they allowed him to keep playing, including for nine minutes of the last quarter when the game was on the line.

Hollands had played 75 per cent of game time up until three-quarter time. He recorded one disposal for the game.

Last year, Hollands twice took personal leave from Carlton, later revealing he had been battling mental ill-health and issues with alcohol.

Elijah Hollands has been admitted to hospital. Elijah Hollands has been admitted to hospital. Credit: Getty

Carlton CEO Graham Wright on Sunday ruled out alcohol or illicit substances being a factor in affecting Hollands during the match.

“We’re dealing with a mental health issue … right at the moment,” Wright said at Ikon Park on Sunday.

“We’re in the process of going through all the circumstances leading up to the game, two or three weeks prior to the game.

“Our primary focus remains on caring for Elijah, making sure he continues to receive the medical and wellbeing support he needs.

“Elijah’s mental challenges have been well documented.

“Our staff have been working alongside Elijah on this journey with him over a long period of time now, both on and off the field, providing every resource possible to ensure his welfare is paramount.

“Thursday night presented unprecedented and complex circumstances. We’re taking this very seriously.”