Fox NFL Insider Jay Glazer has publicly shared his ongoing struggles with mental health, including suicidal ideations, emphasizing the crucial support he receives from his wife, Rosie, and Olympic swimming legend Michael Phelps.
Glazer posted a video message on social media on World Suicide Prevention Day, stating his commitment to choosing life daily. He described his mental health challenges as a "battle a lot of us deal with" and a "daily battle between my ears."
He acknowledged hesitation in sharing his struggles due to past negative reactions to similar posts, but decided to speak out "with the chance it can help." Glazer, who detailed his lifelong battle with depression in his 2022 memoir "Unbreakable," expressed that in moments of intense distress, he has felt "like, I didn’t want to live" and experienced thoughts that "people are better off without me."
Glazer recounted how his wife's question, "What do you need from me?" and her reassurance that she would not leave him, provided vital support. He also disclosed that he engages in self-harm during what he calls "bipolar meltdowns."
Mutual Support with Michael Phelps
Glazer highlighted his regular communication and mutual support with Michael Phelps, the 23-time Olympic gold medalist who has also spoken openly about his experiences with anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Glazer described Phelps as a "brother" with whom he FaceTimes during difficult moments.
In one shared video exchange, Glazer asked Phelps for his "unbreakable moment," to which Phelps responded, "It’s probably the moment of not wanting to be alive."
Glazer suggested that societal pressures often lead to the weaponization and shaming of mental health struggles, referencing the mentality that encourages men not to show pain. He advocated for vulnerability as a form of strength, stating, "Dudes need to start knowing you can be that f–king warrior when you need to do warrior s–t. But be more of a warrior by being vulnerable."
He affirmed his personal commitment to life, stating, "I made the commitment to the universe and to God, I’m not going to kill myself. I can’t now."
The video concluded with a message encouraging viewers that they are not alone and directing them to call or text 988 for free and confidential crisis counseling. Assistance is also available through 988lifeline.org.