Taylan May’s Comeback: Battling Bipolar Disorder and Chasing NRL Glory
Taylan May, a Samoan centre who made his National Rugby League (NRL) debut in 2021, has navigated a challenging and often public few years. His NRL career, marked by just 37 games, has been significantly impacted by personal and legal issues. After sitting out the entire 2024 season due to domestic violence charges, which were subsequently withdrawn, May faced a different, yet equally significant, battle off the field: his mental health.
In a candid revelation, May shared that he was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder last year. This diagnosis, he explained, brought a profound sense of clarity to a lifelong feeling of being “different.” “I always knew there was something, like I always felt different,” May told The Daily Telegraph. “We just didn’t ever want to put a label on it.”
Seeking Help and Finding Support
The commitment to his well-being saw May voluntarily admit himself to a psychiatric ward at the start of last year. This decision was a crucial step towards personal improvement and a pathway back to the NRL. Crucially, he found unwavering support from his wife, Jessica, who stood by him as he confronted the reality of his condition. This support facilitated his commencement of regular sessions with a psychologist, a vital component of his recovery and management plan.
May is now on medication and actively continues to manage his mental health. Reflecting on his previous perceptions, he admitted, “I thought mental health was fake, but honestly, now that I have checked into it and seen the signs, yeah, it’s real.” He values the confidentiality offered in therapy, stating, “I don’t really talk to anyone, but I know (opening up in) therapy doesn’t go anywhere. So it’s good to speak to someone who can hold that secrecy.”
Ambitions Beyond Recovery
With a planned return to the NRL midway through the 2025 season, May has dedicated the pre-season to building consistency with the Wests Tigers. However, his sights are set on even greater achievements. Alongside his brother Terrell, May harbours a significant ambition: to represent New South Wales (NSW). He revealed that this is the primary form of NRL he consistently follows, underscoring its importance to him.
“If I keep my body right, everything else off the field right, I’m hoping to do a lot of amazing things … They gave me a chance, so I’ll stick out to my contract,” May stated, alluding to his contract with the Tigers and his aspirations for representative football.
A United Future for the May Brothers
Both Taylan and Terrell May will be free agents from November 1st, with the open market presenting them with new opportunities. However, they have consistently expressed a strong desire to remain teammates. Their move to the Wests Tigers places them among a cohort of former Penrith players who have reunited under the guidance of NRL legend Benji Marshall.
Looking ahead to the 2026 season, May is optimistic about the Wests Tigers’ potential. “Yeah, 100 per cent, definitely top eight,” he declared, showcasing his confidence in the team’s prospects. His journey of overcoming personal challenges and his dedication to his craft suggest a player driven by resilience and a clear vision for his future in the sport.
