Terry Bradshaw Lived with Anxiety Attacks and Extreme Emotions. Now, He’s Opening Up About ‘Surviving’ with Depression (Exclusive)

**Terry Bradshaw Opens Up About Mental Health in New Memoir**

In an intimate interview with PEOPLE magazine, football legend Terry Bradshaw shared insights from his forthcoming memoir, *Looking for Terry*, which is set to be released on Tuesday, 13 October. The former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback, now 78, candidly recounts his lifelong battle with clinical depression, highlighting the importance of mental health awareness.

Terry Bradshaw’s journey to understanding his mental health issues has been anything but simple. Throughout his illustrious football career and successful broadcasting tenure, he grappled with undiagnosed ADHD and anxiety attacks, experiences he previously dismissed as typical. “You didn’t talk about it,” he recalled, reflecting on the stigma surrounding mental health, especially for male athletes. It wasn’t until the late 1990s, post-retirement, that he was formally diagnosed with depression.

During the interview, Bradshaw admitted that acknowledging his mental health struggles was one of the most challenging moments of his life. “Finally saying, ‘Hey, I’m really f****d up. I need to get some help,’ was a breakthrough,” he revealed. Professional help and the support of a pastor were pivotal in his journey towards healing.

Terry credits his wife, Tammy, whom he married in 2014, for her vital role in his recovery. Tammy, a former radiation therapist, helped him navigate his mental health challenges by reframing his understanding of depression. “This is not a choice. It’s not your fault,” she would assure him. Their open dialogue has become a cornerstone of their relationship, allowing him to express his feelings without fear or shame. “Men think that’s a weakness,” Terry remarked, “but I got past it being a weakness. It’s a sickness.”

According to Tammy, she can often sense when her husband is struggling. The couple has personified his difficult moments with the name “Roy,” representing the dark times when his mental health dips. “When ‘Roy’ comes to visit, we both acknowledge it,” she explained, showcasing their collaborative approach to managing his moods.

At his serene horse breeding ranch in Saint Jo, Texas, Terry finds solace in his passion for breeding horses. He described this new chapter in his life as one that has brought him “peace.” The couple’s shared commitment to mental health advocacy is evident in their conversations, where they routinely check in with each other. “Some days I’ll say to Tammy, ‘Hey, I’m not having a good day,’” Terry stated. Her response is always to engage him in a productive distraction, helping lift his spirits.

Through his memoir, Terry aims to shed light on the complexities of depression, hoping that his honesty will encourage others to seek help. “If you read the book and you get some good out of it, then so be it. There’s something to be learned from this book,” he said, emphasising the need for open discussions about mental health.

With an impressive career that includes four Super Bowl championships, Terry Bradshaw’s public persona often overshadows his personal struggles. As he reflected on his life, he expressed pride in his resilience. “I’m proud of myself for making it through and surviving,” he stated.

As *Looking for Terry* hits the shelves, both Bradshaw and his wife hope it serves as an educational tool for readers. The message is clear: acknowledging one’s struggles is a strength, not a weakness. In a world where many suffer in silence, Terry’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of support and the courage it takes to confront personal demons.

*Looking for Terry*, published by HarperCollins, will be available for purchase starting on 13 October. Through this memoir, Terry Bradshaw hopes to inspire others to embark on their journeys towards mental wellness.