Last year, Josh Dugan would've bottled up his frustrations.
But the Cronulla star insists he's become better at dealing with positional changes under rookie coach John Morris.
After playing in the centres and on the wing through the opening seven rounds, Dugan showed glimpses of his best in a return to fullback last week.
"The first week I was put on the wing I was a little bit frustrated, (thinking), 'Why am I on the wing?'" Dugan said on Monday.
"After I had an in-depth chat with 'Bomber' (Morris), he explained it. I was able to accept it, whereas last year I probably just wouldn't have had that conversation."
Dugan made headlines last September when he broke down during an emotional interview as he opened up on battling negative perceptions of him.
But after focusing on improving his mental health, the former NSW and Kangaroos representative is now better equipped at handling NRL challenges.
"(Last year) I'd probably just sit back and go through the motions on the wing and not say a word," Dugan said.
"Going and sorting things out last year, it's helped me this year, being able to find those triggers and things that are detrimental to my mental and physical health.
"I'm in a lot better space on and off the field."
The Sharks are leaning on all of Dugan's experience as they battle through an injury crisis that includes Matt Moylan, Wade Graham and Shaun Johnson.
Moylan trained with the team on Monday, but is unlikely to be considered this week and is instead a chance of returning in round 10 against Manly.
Dugan will then target a home in the centres.
"Once we start getting some troops back hopefully we can settle on a starting team and there's not going to be so much chopping and changing," he said.
"But unfortunately that's footy and you don't always get what you want. Things always don't go to plan. I'll take it and roll with the punches."
The 28-year-old has also gone on to become a State of Mind ambassador for the club, which focuses on breaking down the stigma of mental health.
He has also committed to shaving off his mullet for charity later this month, with the money raised handed to child hospice Bear Cottage.
"It's nearly at $2000. My goal is $5000, I've got another three weeks or so... so hopefully I can reach the goal by then," Dugan said.
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