NORTH Melbourne has announced recruit Aaron Hall will be stepping away from football indefinitely to deal with mental health issues.

The former Sun was on the verge of returning from a knee injury that has restricted his availability at his new club, but will now be given as much time as he needs to deal with his current concerns.

"Aaron has our full support as he works through some personal issues," North Melbourne general manager of football Cameron Joyce told the club website.

"Aaron has indicated he needs to spend some time away from the club, to focus on his personal well-being and his family."

"The club and players will do everything to ensure Aaron is supported during this time, and knows he can take as much time as he needs.

The 28-year-old midfielder has managed just half a dozen senior appearances since arriving at Arden Street in search of finals football, being dropped to the Roos' VFL team after the club's round six loss to Port Adelaide.

"I have played 100 games and haven’t looked like playing finals and that has been a massive driver for me in this decision," Hall said in October of his move to North Melbourne.

"Hopefully I can help make them a better team with my attributes."

Hall's announcement comes after Collingwood midfielder Dayne Beams made a similar decision earlier this week, the 29-year-old Magpie stating he was "a broken man".

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