NRL fans and the broader rugby league community are commending James Graham for his bravery and honesty after he publicly revealed a personal battle with mental health issues. The 40-year-old former rugby league star disclosed for the first time that he underwent a stint in rehab last year. Graham, who played an impressive 424 first-grade games during his career with St Helens, the Canterbury Bulldogs, and St George Illawarra Dragons, has become a respected media figure since retiring in 2020.
Graham’s revelation came during an episode of his podcast, ‘The Bye Round,’ where he opened up about his mental health journey. He admitted to struggling with anxiety and depression, particularly highlighting a difficult period in 2025. “This last 12 months has been particularly hard,” he stated. “Not many people know about this … I made the decision to go to rehab. When I said I was away on holidays, it was a week in a facility for mental health. Which wasn’t long enough.”
Graham’s Struggle and Recovery
The former front-rower explained that his time in rehab was cut short due to work commitments, despite the recommended three-week stay. “You’re supposed to stay there for three (weeks) but due to the job, I couldn’t disappear for three weeks,” he confessed. Graham also acknowledged slipping back into old habits, including “unnecessary drinking and abuse of alcohol,” and described his life as lacking balance due to his “go hard at everything” mentality.
He elaborated on his coping mechanisms, emphasizing the role of physical exercise in managing his mental health. “I run a lot, which I’ve found is so beneficial for mental health,” he shared. “I do weight training as well but running in particular is helpful. I’ll finish a really hard run but then want to go hard again on the drinking or eating, or whatever it may be, working. It’s not a balancing act, it’s just all in.”
Community and Fan Reactions
The rugby league world has responded with an outpouring of support and admiration for Graham’s courage in speaking out. His candidness has sparked conversations about mental health within the sport, with fans and fellow athletes praising his decision to share his story. One fan commented online, “This is going to open up the doors and get people talking. Jimmy is an icon to many and it will have taken a lot for him to have spoken out.”
Another supporter echoed this sentiment, stating, “The more people who are candid and open about this in our game, the better. Especially a warrior like Jimmy.” The impact of Graham’s disclosure is evident, as it encourages others to seek help and reduces the stigma surrounding mental health issues.
Expert Opinions and Historical Context
Mental health experts have long advocated for open discussions about mental well-being, particularly in high-pressure environments like professional sports. Dr. Sarah Mitchell, a psychologist specializing in sports psychology, noted, “Athletes often face immense pressure to perform, which can exacerbate underlying mental health issues. James Graham’s openness is a significant step towards normalizing these conversations and encouraging others to seek help.”
Historically, the sports world has seen a gradual shift towards acknowledging and addressing mental health challenges. High-profile athletes across various disciplines have begun sharing their personal struggles, contributing to a growing awareness and acceptance of mental health issues.
The Path Forward
Graham’s revelation serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health support within the sports community. His story highlights the need for accessible resources and a supportive environment for athletes facing similar challenges. As the conversation around mental health continues to evolve, Graham’s bravery in sharing his journey will undoubtedly inspire others to seek the help they need.
Looking ahead, the rugby league community and the broader sports world are likely to see more athletes stepping forward to share their experiences, fostering a culture of openness and support. James Graham’s candidness has set a powerful precedent, paving the way for a more compassionate and understanding approach to mental health in sports.
