Chris Fagan reveals he suffered panic attacks after steering Brisbane to 2024 premiership

Brisbane Lions coach Chris Fagan has revealed he suffered frequent panic attacks in the months after guiding the club to the 2024 AFL premiership.

Fagan, 64, who became the oldest coach to win a flag when the Lions beat the Sydney Swans by 60 points at the MCG, told Channel Seven he felt "incredibly happy" after the victory but subsequently endured a period of physical and mental exhaustion. "For three or four months afterwards, not every day was good," he said. "You know, again, we talk about mental health, but there's been the odd occasion in my life where panic attacks have come along... and they came along again after that grand final."

Fagan said he had people around him and sought assistance from the Lions' sports psychologist, which helped him recover. He described the episodes as intermittent — "not every day; some days were good, but some days I'd wake up and think, 'How am I going to be today?'" The coach's full interview on Unfiltered is scheduled to air on Channel Seven at 9:30 p.m. on Wednesday.

The revelation comes as Brisbane's premiership defence is under pressure. The Lions were outclassed by Geelong in the second qualifying final at the MCG on Sept. 5 and must beat Gold Coast at the Gabba this weekend to keep their season alive.

Health organisations say panic attacks are relatively common. Beyond Blue estimates roughly 40 percent of Australians experience a panic attack once or twice in their lives. Panic attacks involve sudden, intense anxiety and physical symptoms such as an elevated heart rate, shortness of breath, trembling and muscle tension. Medical guidance advises those experiencing panic attacks to focus on slow, deep breathing and to seek professional support when needed.

Fagan's account adds to ongoing conversations about mental health in elite sport, where athletes, coaches and staff increasingly speak publicly about psychological wellbeing and the support structures available within clubs. The Lions did not provide further comment beyond Fagan's interview.