Williams yesterday revealed that while he had triumphed in the ring against Indonesian boxer Rusmin Kie Raha on Saturday night, he was still "haunted" by depression.

"To be honest, I won a fight last Saturday and I was on a high for two or three days after the fight, but I've had a massive crash today (yesterday)," Williams said yesterday.

With the euphoria of victory faded, Williams is fiercely determined to continue his efforts to raise awareness of mental health issues.

"Some of the toughest people, and the most successful people, have suffered from mental illness," Williams said.

"I hope that by talking about experiences I can demonstrate that people from all walks of life suffer from depression.

"My goal is to help young people understand that there is help available and that they are not alone."

The subject of a recently released short film called "The Enemy Within", Williams has become a standard bearer for mental-health problems.

Teaming with Riverina Bluebell, Williams will head a community forum on mental illness at the Wagga RSL Club on Wednesday.

Targeting fathers and their sons, the special event will feature Williams talking about his ongoing battle, and efforts to reduce the sigma associated with mental illness.

Riverina Bluebell chairman Mac Armytage said Wednesday's event, which starts at 5.30pm, was aimed to appeal to fathers and their sons.

"Males, particularly young males in our community, often find it hard to speak about their feelings and to seek help if they are suffering depression,: Armytage said.

"As a revered sportsman, Joe Williams is an ideal spokesperson and ambassador to help promote greater awareness of mental health issues among this demographic."

Williams yesterday said spending time with his children was highest priority.

"Kids come first," he said.

The Riverina Bluebell forum will also involve other speakers and will feature a screening of The Enemy Within