NRL fans and the broader rugby league community are commending James Graham for his bravery and honesty after he publicly revealed for the first time that he had a stint in rehab last year to address mental health issues. The 40-year-old, who played 424 first-grade games during an illustrious career with St Helens, the Canterbury Bulldogs, and St George Illawarra Dragons, has been open about his struggles with anxiety and depression.
Since retiring in 2020, Graham has transitioned into a successful media career, engaging in commentary, analysis, and podcast work. This week, he used his platform on ‘The Bye Round’ podcast to share his personal mental health journey, disclosing for the first time that he attended rehab last year.
Graham’s Struggles and the Decision to Seek Help
The former front-rower has previously spoken about enduring a particularly rough period in 2025. “This last 12 months has been particularly hard,” Graham admitted. “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 explained the challenges he faced in committing to a longer stay, citing professional obligations and societal stigma as barriers. “You’re supposed to stay there for three (weeks) but due to the job, I couldn’t disappear for three weeks. If I was involved in an accident and had an illness and I needed three weeks off work I’d do it, but for some strange reason (I didn’t stay). One of the reasons why I didn’t was because people would know, but why would I care if they know or not?”
Breaking the Cycle of Old Habits
Graham candidly discussed slipping back into “old habits” of “unnecessary drinking and abuse of alcohol,” acknowledging the absence of balance in his life. “It’s just go hard at everything,” he said. “That’s going hard at partying, wake up the next day, hungover, dealing with the mental health, and then I go running. I run a lot, which I’ve found is so beneficial for mental health.”
He emphasized the importance of physical activity in managing his mental health, noting, “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.”
Support and Praise from the NRL Community
The NRL world has showered Graham with praise following his admission. Fans and fellow players have expressed admiration for his courage in speaking out. Graham shared a poignant moment when a close friend expressed concern for his well-being, fearing the worst when he hadn’t heard from him for a few days. “I’d never do that,” Graham reassured. “And I think that’s important to know, and he knows that too, but I think to hear your friend say that (is eye-opening).”
“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,” one fan wrote online.
Another supporter commented, “The more people who are candid and open about this in our game, the better. Especially a warrior like Jimmy.”
Implications and the Path Forward
Graham’s revelation comes at a time when mental health awareness is gaining momentum in the sports world. His story highlights the importance of seeking help and breaking the stigma associated with mental health issues. By sharing his journey, Graham hopes to inspire others to seek the support they need without feeling ashamed.
As the conversation around mental health continues to evolve, Graham’s openness serves as a powerful reminder of the strength found in vulnerability. His story is likely to encourage more athletes to speak out, potentially transforming the culture within the NRL and beyond.
Looking ahead, the support and praise Graham has received may pave the way for more comprehensive mental health resources and support systems for athletes. As the NRL community rallies around him, Graham’s courage in sharing his story could be a catalyst for change, fostering a more understanding and supportive environment for all players.